Religion and the forgiving personality

Author(s): Worthington, E. L.

Journal/Book: J Personality. 1999; 67: 350 Main Street, Ste 6, Malden, MA 02148, USA. Blackwell Publishers. 1141-1164.

Abstract: Forgiveness is a concept with deep religious roots. It is also a basic social and psychological phenomenon. In this article, we explore the links between forgiveness and religion by surveying how they are linked in the major monotheistic world religions, and how they appear to be linked empirically. In attempting to account for the current body of empirical findings, we propose four potential substantive and methodological explanations that should be explored in future studies. Because the concept of forgiveness is (a) both spiritual and social-psychological in nature, and (b) possibly linked to some measures of human health and well-being (concerns that have traditionally been of interest to both researchers in personality and researchers in religion), the concept of forgiveness could be an important common ground for future research on the interface of religion and personality.

Note: Article McCullough ME, Natl Inst Healthcare Res, Dept Res, 6110 Execut Blvd, Suite 908, Rockville,MD 20852 USA

Keyword(s): SOCIAL DESIRABILITY; FORGIVENESS; ATTRIBUTIONS; INTERVENTION; AGGREGATION; ORIENTATION; CONFESSION; RESPONSES; BEHAVIOR; HEALTH

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