The Varieties of Forgiveness Experience: Working toward a Comprehensive Definition of Forgiveness

The definition of forgiveness was explored in a group of 270 young adults, and the underlying dimensions of their definitions compared with those of philosophers, theologians and psychological researchers. Three dimensions were identified: orientation (self, other), direction (passive letting go of...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of religion and health 2007-06, Vol.46 (2), p.233-248
Main Authors: Lawler-Row, Kathleen A., Scott, Cynthia A., Raines, Rachel L., Edlis-Matityahou, Meirav, Moore, Erin W.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Cognition
Emotion
Emotional expression
Emotional states
Forgiveness
Morality
Philosophical psychology
Reconciliation
Theology
Wellbeing
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Summary:The definition of forgiveness was explored in a group of 270 young adults, and the underlying dimensions of their definitions compared with those of philosophers, theologians and psychological researchers. Three dimensions were identified: orientation (self, other), direction (passive letting go of negative experiences, active enhancement of positive experiences) and form (emotion, cognition and behavior). Definitions employing a passive letting go of negative experiences were associated with more state forgiveness. Gender dierences were found in state forgiveness and in the employment of passive vs. active dimensions of forgiveness.
ISSN:0022-4197
1573-6571
DOI:10.1007/s10943-006-9077-y