• DOI:10.1080/23311908.2016.1153817
• Corpus ID: 73654630

Mental health through forgiveness: Exploring the roots and benefits

@article{Raj2016MentalHT,
  title={Mental health through forgiveness: Exploring the roots and benefits},
  author={Paul Raj and Cherian Sumina Elizabeth and P. Padmakumari},
  journal={Cogent Psychology},
  year={2016},
  volume={3}
}

• P. Raj, C. S. Elizabeth, P. Padmakumari
• Published 28 March 2016
• Psychology
• Cogent Psychology

Abstract Forgiveness is conceptualized as the process of making peace with life. The three sources of forgiveness, another person, oneself, and a situation or circumstance are capable of freeing a person from a negative association to the source that has transgressed against a person. Research studies show the mental health benefits associated with forgiveness. The present study explores the experiences of adults who practice forgiveness, specifically, the indicators of forgiveness, the childhood antecedents, and the benefits of forgiving behavior. The study uses a qualitative research approach following a phenomenological framework. A total of 12 adults, ranging from 25 to 40 years of age, who received a high score on Heartland Forgiveness Scale were included in the study. Using semi-structured in-depth interviews, their personal experiences were explored. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The themes emerged show that the childhood antecedents of forgiveness are parental influences and early childhood experiences. The indicators of forgiving behavior include positive emotional state, empathy and perspective taking, and religiosity. The themes identified are enhanced sense of well-being, improved self-acceptance, and competence to deal with challenges. Forgiveness enhanced physical and psychological well-being. The findings of the study have several implications for religious leaders, teachers, parents, mental health professionals, and trainers.