Page No : 344-353
Sahil Jilowa, Pinki, Nisha,
Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar.
Shashi Rashmi,
Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana.
Rakesh Kumar Behmani,
Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar
The present study investigates the predictive relationship between dehumanization,
shame and guilt, and self-dehumanization among university students. A total of 400
participants (310 females and 90 males) age ranges from 17 to 32 years from rural (n =
172) and urban (n = 228) localities were assessed using standardized scales. Descriptive
statistics revealed moderate levels of all three psychological constructs across the
sample. The correlation analysis showed significant positive associations between
dehumanization and self-dehumanization (r = .689, p < .01), dehumanization and shame/
guilt (r = .832, p < .01), and shame/guilt and self-dehumanization (r = .634, p < .01),
indicating a strong interconnectedness among these variables. Further, regression
analysis indicated that dehumanization and shame/guilt significantly predicted selfdehumanization,
with an R² of .486, suggesting that approximately 48.6% of the variance
in self-dehumanization is explained by these two predictors. The overall model was
statistically significant (R = .697, Adjusted R² = .484, SE = 12.99), confirming the
substantial impact of both variables on self-dehumanization. These findings highlight
the critical role of interpersonal and intrapersonal negative experiences—specifically
feelings of dehumanization and internalized shame and guilt—in contributing to the
self-dehumanization process among young adults. The results underscore the need for
psychological interventions aimed at reducing these experiences, particularly among
vulnerable groups.