Addiction Quote by John Bradshaw
““A person with internalized shame believes he is inherently flawed, inferior and defective.Such a feeling is so painful that defending scripts (or strategies) are developed to cover it up. These scripts are the roots of violence, criminality, war and all forms of addiction. What I’ll mainly describe in the first part of this book is how the affect shame can become the source of self-loathing, hatred of others, cruelty, violence, brutality, prejudice and all forms of destructive addictions. As an internalized identity, toxic shame is one of the major sources of the demonic in human life.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Healing the Shame that Binds You, John Bradshaw, 1988
Internalized shame creates a belief of inherent flaw, leading to defensive scripts that fuel violence, addiction, and cruelty.
In simple terms: Shame makes people feel defective, causing harmful behavior.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address shame to break destructive cycles.
Themes
shame
identity
violence
addiction
prejudice
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
analytical
therapeutic
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- educational workshops
- personal reflection
- community support
Key Concepts
psychology
trauma
social pathology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does shame manifest in your daily actions?
- What strategies can replace defensive scripts?
A Different Perspective
Shame is often deeply rooted and may resist simple rational analysis.
