Remedial Processes in Embarrassing Predicaments

Embarrassing predicaments are a routine pari of social interaction arising from the display of untoward or inappropriate behavior. Such events create feelings of chagrin, engender negative attributions about the embarrassed person, and disrupt social interaction. Consequently, both embarrassed acton and observers employ remedial face work in response to embarrassing predicaments in order to repair damaged identities, maintain face, and restore interactional equilibrium. This chapter summarizes the relevant literature in four areas related to embarrassment: (a) the nature of embarrassing predicaments, (b) remedial strategies employed by embarrassed acton, (c) responses of observers to an embarrassing predicament, and (d) factors influencing the use and effectiveness of remedial strategies. While prior research has offered some useful knowledge about general remedial processes, it fails to capture some of the unique and subtle aspects of coping with embarrassment. To promote greater understanding of the inherent complexities of remedial processes, we propose a preliminary taxonomy of embarrassing predicaments and suggest avenues for future research.