Abstract
Based on the framework of the broaden-and-build theory (Fredrickson in Philos Trans R Soc B Biol Sci 359(1449):1367, 2004a, b), we proposed that the emotion of gratitude generates upstream reciprocity (UR, which is helping an unrelated third party
after being helped) by broadening the beneficiary’s perspective toward others and thus making the beneficiary represent the
benefactor and newly encountered strangers in the same social category. Furthermore, by inducing one UR after another, gratitude
may lead to a chain/network of UR and strengthen the structure of organization. We named the effect the integration function
of gratitude and demonstrated it by applying the social network analysis technique to eighteen small groups. Implications
of the integration function are discussed in terms of self-identity, social exchange theory, and quality of life.
after being helped) by broadening the beneficiary’s perspective toward others and thus making the beneficiary represent the
benefactor and newly encountered strangers in the same social category. Furthermore, by inducing one UR after another, gratitude
may lead to a chain/network of UR and strengthen the structure of organization. We named the effect the integration function
of gratitude and demonstrated it by applying the social network analysis technique to eighteen small groups. Implications
of the integration function are discussed in terms of self-identity, social exchange theory, and quality of life.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Research Paper
- Pages 1-21
- DOI 10.1007/s10902-011-9289-z
- Authors
- Yen-Ping Chang, Department of Psychology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Yi-Cheng Lin, Department of Psychology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Lung Hung Chen, Department of Recreation and Leisure Industry Management, National Taiwan Sport University, P.O. Box 59182, 10012 Taipei, Taiwan
- Journal Journal of Happiness Studies
- Online ISSN 1573-7780
- Print ISSN 1389-4978