heart-searching 
noun [mass noun]
Thorough, typically painful examination of one’s feelings and motives: I began to write, but not without much heart-searching...
- The SNP election broadcast about waiting lists was controversial and provoked many heart-searching discussions about negative campaigning and taste.
- And of course he stopped in his tracks, turned around and gave her an exclusive, heart-searching interview about his difficult childhood.
- And in the privacy of their extensive suites, yesterday's atrocities should prompt heart-searching among some of those present.