This book does not dumb down complex material but presents it in accessible, emotionally compelling language; it appeals to general readers seeking self-help for shame as well as to professional psychotherapists. It has a broad base in various developmental, relational, and neurobiological theories that are seen as complementary and mutually explanatory; this capacity to synthesize draws well-read, seasoned psychotherapists It presents a specific new understanding of the problem of chronic shame - an experience that accompanies many "mental health" issues. * With this new understanding of the problem of shame, the book, especially in this second edition, presents specific different therapeutic approaches applicable to specific different shame-based or shame-infused disorders.