Abstract
This study examined the effects of writing letters of gratitude on three primary qualities of well-being; happiness (positive
affect), life-satisfaction (cognitive evaluation), and depression (negative affect). Gratitude was also assessed. Participants
included 219 men and women who wrote three letters of gratitude over a 3 week period. A two-way mixed method ANOVA with a
between factor (writers vs. non-writers) and within subject factor (time of testing) analysis was conducted. Results indicated
that writing letters of gratitude increased participants’ happiness and life satisfaction, while decreasing depressive symptoms.
The implications of this approach for intervention are discussed.
affect), life-satisfaction (cognitive evaluation), and depression (negative affect). Gratitude was also assessed. Participants
included 219 men and women who wrote three letters of gratitude over a 3 week period. A two-way mixed method ANOVA with a
between factor (writers vs. non-writers) and within subject factor (time of testing) analysis was conducted. Results indicated
that writing letters of gratitude increased participants’ happiness and life satisfaction, while decreasing depressive symptoms.
The implications of this approach for intervention are discussed.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-15
- DOI 10.1007/s10902-011-9257-7
- Authors
- Steven M. Toepfer, Human Development and Family Studies, School of Lifespan Development and Educational Sciences, Kent State University, Salem, OH 44460-9412, USA
- Kelly Cichy, Human Development and Family Studies, School of Lifespan Development and Educational Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA
- Patti Peters, Bureau of Research Training, 507 White Hall, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA
- Journal Journal of Happiness Studies
- Online ISSN 1573-7780
- Print ISSN 1389-4978