SUCCESS Materials – English

Positivity – Theoretical Background – Expressing Gratitude

Expressing Gratitude

Gratitude is the term used to describe the process of expressing appreciation towards something or someone, as well as noticing and appreciating the world in general (Wood, Froh, & Geraghty, 2010). The promotion of gratitude expression  has been identified as a useful positive psychology intervention for improving well–being and enhancing life-satisfaction (Seligman, Steen, Park, & Peterson, 2005). Links have also been made between the expression of gratitude and the experience of a greater number of positive emotions (Fredrickson, 2004), more successful social adaptation (social integration), improvements in social skills (prosocial behavior) and elevated life-satisfaction in school-aged children (Froh, Bono & Emmon, 2010).