Self-conscious emotions are feelings that arise from self-reflection and the awareness of social standards. These emotions include guilt, shame, embarrassment, and pride. They typically occur when individuals evaluate their actions in relation to societal expectations or personal values. Unlike basic emotions such as happiness or anger, self-conscious emotions require a sense of self and an understanding of how one is perceived by others. They play a crucial role in social interactions, influencing behavior and relationships by motivating individuals to conform to social norms or to seek forgiveness and reconciliation.