Students’ Perceptions of Causes and Consequences of Embarrassment in the School

Abstract

This paper is developed from qualitative data collected as part of a larger study of the schooling experiences of high school students in Atlantic Canada. Within a sociological orientation, students’ perceptions of the causes and consequences of embarrassment in the school are identified. These causes are seen in students’ perceptions of the extent to which teachers are understanding, patient, and caring. The fact that teachers often appear to favour certain students and treat some as “kids,” and the views that teachers are sometimes nosey and egoistic also underlie causes of student embarrassment. In addition to the negative effects on student learning and their attitudes toward schooling, the consequences of student embarrassment include developing a dislike for teachers, becoming “mad” at their teachers, fearing teachers’ actions, and developing negative self-concepts. Issues related to teacher awareness of student embarrassment and the pedagogical overtones of these issues are addressed as well.