Top 21 Slang For Self Punishment – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to self-punishment, some may not realize that there’s a whole set of slang terms that capture this unique experience. From self-flagellation to self-sabotage, our team has delved deep into this topic to bring you a list that sheds light on the various ways individuals might engage in self-punishment. Get ready to explore this intriguing world and maybe even discover a term that resonates with your own experiences.

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1. Self-criticism

Self-criticism refers to the act of being overly critical of oneself, often focusing on one’s perceived flaws or mistakes.

For example, someone might say, “I’m always criticizing myself for not being good enough.”
In a therapy session, a person might discuss their tendency for self-criticism and how it affects their self-esteem.
A friend might offer support by saying, “Try to be kinder to yourself and practice self-compassion instead of self-criticism.”

2. Self-blame

Self-blame is the act of holding oneself responsible for negative events or outcomes, often without considering other factors or external influences.

For instance, someone might say, “I always blame myself for things that go wrong.”
In a situation where a relationship ends, a person might engage in self-blame and think, “It’s all my fault.”
A therapist might work with a client to challenge their self-blame and help them develop a more balanced perspective.

3. Self-punitive behavior

Self-punitive behavior refers to engaging in actions or behaviors that inflict harm or punishment on oneself as a form of self-punishment or self-punishment.

For example, someone might engage in self-punitive behavior by cutting themselves or engaging in other forms of self-harm.
In a therapy session, a person might discuss their self-punitive behavior and explore healthier coping mechanisms.
A friend might express concern and say, “I’m worried about your self-punitive behavior. Let’s find a way to help you feel better without hurting yourself.”

4. Self-harm

Self-harm refers to the act of intentionally causing physical harm to oneself as a way to cope with emotional pain or distress.

For instance, someone might engage in self-harm by cutting, burning, or hitting themselves.
In a therapy session, a person might discuss their self-harm behaviors and work towards finding healthier coping strategies.
A concerned family member might say, “I’m here to support you and help you find other ways to manage your emotions instead of self-harm.”

5. Self-sabotage

Self-sabotage refers to the act of engaging in behaviors that undermine one’s own success or well-being, often due to feelings of self-doubt, fear, or low self-esteem.

For example, someone might self-sabotage a job opportunity by not preparing for the interview or arriving late.
In therapy, a person might explore their patterns of self-sabotage and work towards developing healthier habits.
A friend might offer support and say, “You deserve success, so try not to self-sabotage. Believe in yourself and your abilities.”

6. Self-chastisement

This refers to the act of punishing oneself or feeling guilty for a mistake or wrongdoing. It can involve various forms of self-inflicted suffering or remorse.

For example, someone might say, “I engage in self-chastisement whenever I make a mistake at work.”
In a conversation about personal growth, a person might admit, “I used to be really hard on myself, but I’ve learned to let go of self-chastisement.”
A therapist might discuss the negative effects of self-chastisement, saying, “It’s important for individuals to practice self-compassion instead of self-chastisement.”

7. Self-punishment

This refers to the act of intentionally inflicting pain, suffering, or discomfort on oneself as a form of punishment or penance for a perceived wrongdoing or failure.

For instance, a person might say, “I engaged in self-punishment by not allowing myself to eat dessert for a week.”
In a discussion about unhealthy coping mechanisms, someone might mention, “Self-punishment can be a sign of low self-esteem or unresolved guilt.”
A psychologist might explain, “Self-punishment often stems from a belief that one deserves punishment for their actions.”

8. Self-retribution

This refers to the act of seeking revenge or punishment on oneself for a real or perceived wrongdoing. It can involve various forms of self-inflicted suffering or penance.

For example, someone might say, “I engage in self-retribution by depriving myself of sleep when I feel guilty.”
In a conversation about forgiveness, a person might admit, “I used to seek self-retribution, but I’ve learned to let go of the need for punishment.”
A therapist might discuss the cycle of self-retribution, saying, “Individuals who engage in self-retribution often struggle with self-acceptance and forgiveness.”

9. Self-penance

This refers to the act of voluntarily punishing or making amends for a wrongdoing or sin committed by oneself. It can involve various forms of self-inflicted suffering or acts of restitution.

For instance, a person might say, “I engage in self-penance by donating a portion of my income to charity.”
In a discussion about religious practices, someone might mention, “Self-penance is often a part of the repentance process in certain faith traditions.”
A priest might explain, “Self-penance can be a way for individuals to demonstrate their sincerity and commitment to making things right.”

10. Self-reproval

This refers to the act of criticizing or condemning oneself for a mistake, failure, or undesirable behavior. It involves a strong sense of guilt or disapproval towards one’s own actions.

For example, someone might say, “I engage in self-reproval whenever I don’t meet my own expectations.”
In a conversation about self-esteem, a person might admit, “I used to constantly engage in self-reproval, but I’ve learned to be more compassionate towards myself.”
A therapist might discuss the negative impact of excessive self-reproval, saying, “Self-reproval can contribute to low self-worth and hinder personal growth.”

11. Self-purgation

The act of purging oneself of guilt or negative emotions through various methods or rituals. Self-purgation is often seen as a form of self-punishment or atonement.

For example, someone might engage in self-purgation by confessing their wrongdoings to a trusted friend or therapist.
A person practicing self-purgation might choose to write down their negative thoughts and then burn the paper as a symbolic act of releasing those feelings.
Another method of self-purgation could be engaging in intense physical exercise to “sweat out” the guilt or negative emotions.

12. Self-accusation

The act of blaming oneself for perceived wrongdoings or mistakes. Self-accusation is often a form of self-punishment where individuals hold themselves responsible for negative outcomes or situations.

For instance, someone might engage in self-accusation by constantly berating themselves for not achieving a desired goal.
A person prone to self-accusation might react to a minor mistake by saying, “I always mess everything up. It’s all my fault.”
Another example of self-accusation could be feeling guilty for not being able to help someone in need, even if the circumstances were beyond their control.

13. Self-punitive measures

Various actions or behaviors undertaken by individuals as a means of punishing themselves for perceived wrongdoings or failures. These measures can range from minor self-imposed restrictions to extreme forms of self-harm.

For example, someone might engage in self-punitive measures by denying themselves pleasurable activities as a form of punishment.
A person practicing self-punitive measures might choose to isolate themselves from social interactions to “pay” for their perceived mistakes.
Another example could be engaging in excessive exercise or physical exertion as a means of punishing oneself for not meeting personal expectations.

14. Self-humiliation

The act of intentionally belittling or degrading oneself as a form of self-punishment. Self-humiliation can involve various behaviors or actions aimed at diminishing one’s self-worth.

For instance, someone might engage in self-humiliation by constantly putting themselves down in front of others.
A person prone to self-humiliation might make self-deprecating jokes or comments about their appearance, abilities, or intelligence.
Another example of self-humiliation could be engaging in public acts of embarrassment or humiliation as a means of punishing oneself for perceived wrongdoings.

15. Self-censure

The act of harshly criticizing or condemning oneself for perceived faults or mistakes. Self-censure often involves negative self-talk and can be seen as a form of self-punishment.

For example, someone might engage in self-censure by constantly berating themselves for not meeting their own expectations.
A person prone to self-censure might react to a minor error by saying, “I’m such an idiot. I can’t do anything right.”
Another example of self-censure could be feeling guilty or blaming oneself for the negative emotions or actions of others.

16. Self-punishing thoughts

This refers to the internal dialogue or thoughts that are self-critical, self-blaming, or self-deprecating. Self-punishing thoughts can often contribute to feelings of guilt, shame, or low self-esteem.

For instance, someone might have self-punishing thoughts like, “I’m such a failure” or “I always mess things up.”
In therapy, a person might work on challenging and reframing their self-punishing thoughts to more compassionate and empowering ones.
A mental health professional might suggest techniques for managing self-punishing thoughts, such as cognitive restructuring or mindfulness practices.

17. Self-destructive behavior

This refers to behaviors that are intentionally or unconsciously harmful to oneself. Self-destructive behaviors can manifest in various ways, such as substance abuse, self-harm, or engaging in risky behaviors.

For example, someone might engage in self-destructive behavior like excessive drinking or drug use as a way to cope with emotional pain.
A therapist might work with a client to identify and address the underlying causes of their self-destructive behaviors.
A support group might provide a safe space for individuals struggling with self-destructive behavior to share their experiences and find support.

18. Self-flagellating mindset

This refers to a mindset or mentality characterized by excessive self-criticism, self-blame, or self-punishment. A self-flagellating mindset often involves being overly harsh and unforgiving towards oneself, even for minor mistakes or perceived shortcomings.

For instance, someone with a self-flagellating mindset might constantly berate themselves for not being perfect or for making small errors.
Therapy or self-help techniques can help individuals challenge and change their self-flagellating mindset to one that is more self-compassionate and nurturing.
A mental health professional might work with a client to explore the origins and underlying beliefs that contribute to their self-flagellating mindset.

19. Self-punishing actions

This refers to actions or behaviors that are intentionally or unintentionally harmful to oneself. Self-punishing actions can take many forms, such as self-harm, self-neglect, or sabotaging one’s own success.

For example, someone might engage in self-punishing actions like cutting themselves or engaging in extreme dieting as a way to cope with emotional pain.
Therapy or counseling can help individuals understand and address the underlying reasons behind their self-punishing actions.
A support group might provide a space for individuals struggling with self-punishing actions to share their experiences and find support.

20. Self-punishing habits

This refers to recurring behaviors or habits that are harmful or detrimental to oneself. Self-punishing habits can include things like excessive self-criticism, perfectionism, or engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors.

For instance, someone might have self-punishing habits like constantly comparing themselves to others or always putting others’ needs before their own.
Therapy or self-help strategies can assist individuals in identifying and changing their self-punishing habits to more positive and self-nurturing ones.
A life coach might work with a client to develop healthier habits and routines that support their well-being and self-care.

21. Self-punishing consequences

This term refers to the idea that one’s actions will eventually come back to them, either in a positive or negative way. It is often used to describe situations where someone experiences negative consequences as a result of their own actions.

For example, if someone cheats on their partner and later gets cheated on, it could be said that they are experiencing karma.
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “I believe in karma – what goes around, comes around.”
A person might reflect on their past mistakes and say, “I’ve learned my lesson the hard way, thanks to karma.”