Forgiveness and Flourishing : Understanding Definitions, Models, Evidence, and Methods

Kurzfassung/Abstract

This chapter considers the question, What is forgiveness good for? Among other things it might be good for, forgiveness is particularly good for human flourishing. The chapter begins by defining forgiveness and flourishing, and then considers theoretical models and empirical evidence bearing on the question of the usefulness of forgiveness in promoting human flourishing. The stress-and-coping theories of forgiveness of others and self-forgiveness are reviewed, and a new perspective—the social safety theory of forgiveness of others and self-forgiveness—is briefly introduced. Ways of promoting flourishing through education focused on helping people forgive are also summarized. In this regard, the Process Model of Interpersonal Forgiveness, REACH Forgiveness, and Forgive for Good educational approaches are reviewed, as well as community forgiveness education methods. The chapter concludes with some caveats and limitations of this discussion and some suggestions for ways forward in the interdisciplinary study of forgiveness.