In Norway, a growing conversation about shame and its societal impact has gained attention through recent commentary in major media outlets. The discussion centers on how feelings of shame function differently across cultural and social groups, particularly in multicultural settings. While some argue that shame has diminished in mainstream society, others emphasize its continued presence as a regulating force in minority communities.
This perspective was highlighted in a commentary piece published by NRK, Norway’s public broadcaster, on April 17, 2026. The article, authored by Azra Haliovic, a minority advisor with Trondheim municipality, responds to a prior column that questioned whether society has gone too far in promoting unrestricted individualism. Haliovic contends that such debates often overlook how shame remains a lived reality for many, especially those from immigrant or minority backgrounds.
According to her analysis, shame continues to shape daily decisions for many individuals, influencing everything from clothing choices to social media activity and interpersonal relationships. These pressures are not solely internal but are reinforced through external mechanisms such as social control, exclusion, and, in some cases, verbal or physical confrontation. For example, young women may face comments about their attire if it deviates from community expectations, while young men might be expected to uphold family reputation through specific behavioral norms.
The commentary underscores that public discussions about shame often reflect a majority perspective, which can overlook the experiences of those who do not see shame as a fading emotion but as an ongoing part of life. Haliovic argues that effective dialogue about social norms must account for these differences to avoid misrepresenting the realities of diverse populations.
Her remarks align with broader discussions in Norwegian media about identity, belonging, and the role of cultural expectations in shaping behavior. Other recent pieces on NRK’s Ytring platform have explored related themes, including the challenges of grief in modern society and the evolving understanding of psychological concepts like shame in child development.
While shame is sometimes viewed negatively in psychological literature—some experts have described it as uniformly harmful—others suggest it can serve a functional role when it prompts accountability or behavioral change. The distinction between constructive shame and destructive stigma remains a point of debate among researchers and practitioners.
As conversations about integration, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity continue in Norway and across Europe, perspectives like Haliovic’s contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how social emotions operate in diverse communities. Recognizing that shame does not affect everyone equally is seen as essential to fostering fair and inclusive public discourse.
For readers interested in following developments on this topic, NRK’s Ytring section regularly publishes commentary and analysis on social issues, cultural dynamics, and personal identity in contemporary Norwegian society. Updates are available through the broadcaster’s official website and digital platforms.
To engage with ongoing conversations about shame, identity, and belonging in multicultural societies, readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. Constructive dialogue helps deepen understanding and supports more inclusive community conversations.