Feeling guilty about killing an ant or any other small insect is a subjective experience that varies from person to person. The prevalence of this feeling may depend on cultural, societal, and individual factors.
For some people, the ethical consideration of all living beings, no matter how small, is an important value. This perspective might lead them to feel guilty or remorseful about causing harm to even tiny creatures like ants. Others may not feel the same level of empathy towards insects and might not experience guilt for killing them.
Certain cultures or belief systems emphasize the interconnectedness of all life forms, promoting a sense of responsibility towards the environment and all living creatures, including insects. Consequently, people from such backgrounds might be more prone to experiencing guilt over harming even the smallest creatures.
On the other hand, some cultures or personal beliefs might view insects as pests or inconsequential beings, leading to less guilt when dealing with them.
It's important to note that individual feelings of guilt can also be influenced by the context of the situation. For example, accidentally stepping on an ant while walking might evoke less guilt compared to intentionally harming an ant.
Overall, there is no definitive answer to how common this feeling of guilt is, as it can vary widely from person to person and is influenced by numerous factors. If you are experiencing feelings of guilt or distress related to harming insects or any other aspect of your emotional well-being, it might be helpful to talk to someone you trust or a mental health professional who can provide support and guidance.