{"product_id":"imaginary-crimes-why-we-punish-ourselves-0595321917","title":"Imaginary Crimes: Why We Punish Ourselves and How to Stop","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhat Is an Imaginary Crime?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn imaginary crime is an unconscious, irrational belief that you have done something wrong when you haven't. It's that persistent inner voice suggesting you're not good enough, that you've failed, or that you're responsible for others' pain. Engel examines how these imagined transgressions often take root in childhood and continue shaping relationships and self-perception into adulthood. By bringing these hidden beliefs to light, you can begin to challenge their influence over your life.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOverview of Imaginary Crimes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eImagine carrying a hidden burden of guilt that isn't even yours to bear. \u003cem\u003eImaginary Crimes\u003c\/em\u003e explores how we unconsciously punish ourselves to protect the people we love—and offers a compassionate path toward self-forgiveness. Written by Lewis Engel, this book delves into the dynamics of unwarranted guilt that can anchor you down, making every effort feel like rowing against the current. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or someone struggling with persistent self-blame, this guide provides meaningful insight into breaking the cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho Should Read This Book?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eParents\u003c\/strong\u003e: Gain insight into how your own guilt patterns may affect your children, and learn to model self-forgiveness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTherapists and counsellors\u003c\/strong\u003e: A useful adjunct for clients dealing with shame, guilt, or childhood trauma.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIndividuals in therapy\u003c\/strong\u003e: Augment your work with a clear, thought-provoking read that explains common psychological dynamics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnyone feeling burdened by guilt\u003c\/strong\u003e: If you've ever wondered why you hold yourself back, this book offers answers and hope.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Features of This Psychology Book\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThough categorized within child psychology, \u003cem\u003eImaginary Crimes\u003c\/em\u003e extends its reach to anyone affected by guilt patterns stemming from early experiences. The book is written in an accessible, clear style—readers consistently note its readability for the layperson. Key features include: \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocus on unconscious guilt\u003c\/strong\u003e: Explores how we damage ourselves to protect loved ones.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePractical insights\u003c\/strong\u003e: Offers strategies to recognize and stop self-punishing behaviours.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal-world relevance\u003c\/strong\u003e: Applies to parenting, relationships, and personal growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact paperback format\u003c\/strong\u003e: Easy to carry and reference during therapy or daily reflection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat You'll Learn\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis book provides a framework for understanding and overcoming imaginary crimes. Key takeaways include:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdentify the hidden guilt driving your decisions and reactions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDistinguish between rational remorse and irrational self-blame.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnderstand how your past may be shaping present conflicts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDevelop self-compassion and break the cycle of self-punishment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImprove communication and intimacy in relationships.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese lessons can support emotional healing and foster healthier family dynamics—a valuable resource for anyone on a journey of self-discovery.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHow Readers Are Responding\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMany readers find this book helpful for navigating complicated family issues, praising its clarity and practical value. One noted that the subject matter—how we damage ourselves to protect those we love—resonated deeply. Others describe it as an interesting and highly recommended read that addresses unconscious, crippling beliefs. While individual experiences vary, the general sentiment highlights the book's ability to foster self-awareness and healthier relationships.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Author\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLewis Engel brings a compassionate perspective to the complex topic of irrational guilt. While specific credentials are not detailed in this edition, the author's approach is grounded in clinical understanding and accessible prose, making psychological concepts easy to grasp and apply.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDisclaimer: This book is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional psychological advice. If you are experiencing severe distress, please consult a licensed mental health professional.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Lewis Engel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48337916592366,"sku":null,"price":68.12,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0816\/1158\/7822\/files\/71QmEj1TQ7L._SL1360.jpg?v=1784298592","url":"https:\/\/vitamin4ca.com\/products\/imaginary-crimes-why-we-punish-ourselves-0595321917","provider":"vitamin4ca","version":"1.0","type":"link"}