Theory, Research and Practice
Component | Description |
---|---|
Attention and Awareness | |
 Present moment | Attending to stimuli in the present moment |
 Simple pleasures | Noticing simple things of value |
 Positive searching | Searching for positive aspects of situations |
 Reminiscence | Attending to positive past situations |
 ‘Have’ focus | Attending to tangible and intangible assets |
Comprehension and Coping | |
 Beliefs of abundance | Belief that one’s life has many good things |
 Counter-factual thinking | Considering situations that might have been |
 Social comparison | Comparing one’s situation to those of others |
 Impermanence | Appreciating the temporary nature of situations |
 Schemas | Beliefs that influence gratefulness |
 Refocussing | Using gratefulness to combat negative emotions |
 Benefit finding | Finding benefits of negative situations |
 Self-concept | Viewing oneself as a grateful person |
 Self-efficacy | Perceived ability to regulate one’s gratefulness |
Emotions | |
 Affective gratefulness | The frequency or strength of feeling grateful |
 Contentment | Feeling content with one’s life |
 Acceptance | Lacking feelings of resentment or regret |
 Privilege | Feeling privileged or fortunate and not entitled |
 Awe | Feelings of awe and wonder |
Goals and Habits | |
 Simplicity | Valuing non-material assets over material goods |
 Valuing gratefulness | Valuing gratefulness as important |
 Intention and motivation | Intending to experience gratefulness |
 Rituals | Having regular habits that promote gratefulness |
 Co-operation | Working together with others to achieve goals |
 Savouring | Rituals enhancing the benefits of positive events |
Relationships and Virtues | |
 Agency of others | Benefits provided through the agency of others |
 Costly benefit | Cost to the benefactors of their agency |
 Relational impact | Social consequences of gratitude |
 Social expression | Expressing gratitude to others |
 Kindness | Giving or showing kindness to others |
 Relationships | One’s relationships with others |
 Social norms | Social norms that support gratefulness |