What does 'existential guilt' refer to?

Existential guilt refers specifically to feelings of regret that arise from not living authentically or not fulfilling one's true potential. In the context of existential therapy, it highlights the importance of individual responsibility and the choices one makes in life. When individuals fail to align their actions with their true self or values, they can experience a sense of guilt for not living in accordance with their authentic existence. This concept emphasizes the significance of personal agency and the burden of existential choices, reflecting the belief that each person has the obligation to create meaning in their own life.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of existential guilt. Guilt associated with social interactions is a more general form of guilt that may not relate specifically to authenticity. Guilt arising from others' expectations pertains to external pressures rather than internal authenticity. A psychological condition diagnosed by therapists does not encompass the subjective experience inherent in existential guilt, which is more about personal reflection and choices rather than a clinical label.