This review summarizes current theory and research on moral emotions, offering a framework for understanding how morally relevant emotions may moderate the link between moral standards and moral behavior. Moral emotions are key elements of our moral apparatus, influencing the connection between moral standards and actions. The article focuses on a triad of negatively valenced "self-conscious" emotions—shame, guilt, and embarrassment—and explores their roles in moral behavior. It also considers positive moral emotions such as elevation, gratitude, and pride, as well as other-oriented empathy. Shame and guilt are distinct emotions. Shame is linked to a negative evaluation of the self, while guilt is linked to a negative evaluation of specific behavior. Research indicates that shame is more likely to be associated with public transgressions, whereas guilt is more private. Shame is often more painful than guilt, as it involves a negative evaluation of the self, leading to feelings of worthlessness and powerlessness. Guilt, on the other hand, is more likely to lead to constructive actions, such as apologies and reparations. Shame and guilt have different effects on behavior. Shame is associated with defensive behaviors, such as hiding or blaming others, while guilt is associated with constructive behaviors, such as making amends. Shame can interfere with empathy, making it difficult for individuals to connect with others, whereas guilt is linked to empathy and a desire to right wrongs. Shame is also linked to anger and aggression, while guilt is associated with more constructive responses. Research indicates that guilt is more adaptive than shame. Guilt motivates reparative actions, fosters empathy, and promotes constructive strategies for coping with anger. In contrast, shame is associated with a range of psychological symptoms, including low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. However, shame is not always maladaptive, as it can serve as a motivator for self-improvement when not fused with guilt. The review also discusses new directions in research on shame and guilt, including domain-specific shame and guilt, coping styles, and psychobiological correlates. It highlights the importance of understanding the differences between shame and guilt in order to better understand moral behavior and its consequences. Overall, the review emphasizes the importance of guilt in promoting moral behavior and the potential negative consequences of shame.This review summarizes current theory and research on moral emotions, offering a framework for understanding how morally relevant emotions may moderate the link between moral standards and moral behavior. Moral emotions are key elements of our moral apparatus, influencing the connection between moral standards and actions. The article focuses on a triad of negatively valenced "self-conscious" emotions—shame, guilt, and embarrassment—and explores their roles in moral behavior. It also considers positive moral emotions such as elevation, gratitude, and pride, as well as other-oriented empathy. Shame and guilt are distinct emotions. Shame is linked to a negative evaluation of the self, while guilt is linked to a negative evaluation of specific behavior. Research indicates that shame is more likely to be associated with public transgressions, whereas guilt is more private. Shame is often more painful than guilt, as it involves a negative evaluation of the self, leading to feelings of worthlessness and powerlessness. Guilt, on the other hand, is more likely to lead to constructive actions, such as apologies and reparations. Shame and guilt have different effects on behavior. Shame is associated with defensive behaviors, such as hiding or blaming others, while guilt is associated with constructive behaviors, such as making amends. Shame can interfere with empathy, making it difficult for individuals to connect with others, whereas guilt is linked to empathy and a desire to right wrongs. Shame is also linked to anger and aggression, while guilt is associated with more constructive responses. Research indicates that guilt is more adaptive than shame. Guilt motivates reparative actions, fosters empathy, and promotes constructive strategies for coping with anger. In contrast, shame is associated with a range of psychological symptoms, including low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. However, shame is not always maladaptive, as it can serve as a motivator for self-improvement when not fused with guilt. The review also discusses new directions in research on shame and guilt, including domain-specific shame and guilt, coping styles, and psychobiological correlates. It highlights the importance of understanding the differences between shame and guilt in order to better understand moral behavior and its consequences. Overall, the review emphasizes the importance of guilt in promoting moral behavior and the potential negative consequences of shame.