Shame can be a huge motivator for all sorts of behavior.
Shame is debilitating and also (if big) totally overwhelming.
The brain is designed to avoid becoming overwhelmed because we cannot function well (and thus survive) when we cannot assess present-moment circumstances.
Think of “denial” … what process makes a normal, intelligent & well educated person suppress awareness of painful, but clearly accurate, information.
That’s the brain limiting overwhelm….it’s a feature, not a bug. I call it the “drive for homeostasis preservation”.
When you are caught doing something wrong, it brings up shame. This visible shame is a beacon and bright light that threatens to illuminate your UNCONSCIOUS shame.
Admitting more/worse behavior simply brightens that light and threatens one’s psychological homeostasis.
Dewey Gaedcke’s answer to What are the benefits of seeking therapy?
Dewey Gaedcke’s answer to What is “virtue signaling”? What are some examples? Is it good or bad?