Walden University ScholarWorks Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection 2017 The Experience of Forgiveness in Adults with Different Sacred Belief Systems Christy Jo Heacock Walden University Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations Part of the Cognitive Psychology Commons, Other Psychology Commons, and the Social Psychology Commons This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection at ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Walden University College of Social and Behavioral Sciences This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by Christy Heacock has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Susan Marcus, Committee Chairperson, Psychology Faculty Dr. Rolande Murray, Committee Member, Psychology Faculty Dr. Rhonda Bohs, University Reviewer, Psychology Faculty Chief Academic Officer Eric Riedel, Ph.D. Walden University 2017 Abstract The Experience of Forgiveness in Adults with Different Sacred Belief Systems by Christy Heacock MEd, South Dakota State University, 1999 BS, University of South Dakota, 1978 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University October 2017 Abstract Forgiveness is the act of moving beyond shame, guilt, anger, or blame, and it has been linked to psychological well-being, prosocial behavior, and religion/spirituality (R/S). However, the research on why and how people forgive is inconsistent, as the concepts involved are complex and difficult to define and operationalize. The purpose of this interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was to provide a better understanding of why and how people are cognitively and emotionally able to forgive and the role of R/S in that process. Goal orientation and cognitive restructuring theories were used as frameworks for understanding the forgiveness experience. First-person, semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 persons from 10 different sacred belief systems who had experienced forgiveness of a major transgression. Data were analyzed using the IPA process, and five themes emerged: what is forgiveness?; why forgive?; how to forgive; the relationship between self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others; and developing a forgiveness disposition. All participants described forgiveness as an effortful, transformative process. Their motivation to forgive was based on a learning goal orientation and benefits to personal well-being and relationships. Participants forgave through making supportive R/S and/or social connections, finding the courage to confront transgressions, and resolving issues with compassion and creativity. A model of forgiveness was proposed that researchers can apply to future research efforts, and that mental health providers, clergy, and other helping professionals can use with clients in therapeutic applications of healing from major transgressions. The Experience of Forgiveness in Adults with Different Sacred Belief Systems by Christy Heacock MEd, South Dakota State University, 1999 BS, University of South Dakota, 1978 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University October 2017 Acknowledgments I am very grateful for the 12 wonderful, amazing participants in this study who shared their insights and stories of forgiveness. In addition, I deeply appreciate the many persons who helped me with participant referrals and who provided assistance and encouragement. My husband, children, and committee chair were a great support and inspiration throughout my dissertation journey. A heartfelt thanks to you all for the important role you have played in this study! Table of Contents List of Tables ..................................................................................................................... vi List of Figures ................................................................................................................... vii Chapter 1: Introduction to the Study ....................................................................................1 Background of the Study ...............................................................................................2 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................4 Purpose of the Study ......................................................................................................5 Research Questions ........................................................................................................5 Theoretical Frameworks ................................................................................................6 Nature of the Study ........................................................................................................7 Definition of Terms........................................................................................................8 Assumptions ...................................................................................................................9 Scope and Delimitations ..............................................................................................10 Limitations ...................................................................................................................10 Significance of the Study .............................................................................................11 Summary ......................................................................................................................12 Chapter 2: Review of the Literature ...................................................................................13 Literature Search Strategy............................................................................................15 History of Forgiveness .................................................................................................16 Theological and Philosophical Background ......................................................... 16 Merging of Theology, Philosophy, and Psychology ............................................. 22 Defining Forgiveness ...................................................................................................26 i Forgiveness Misunderstandings ............................................................................ 28 Cultural Considerations ........................................................................................ 30 Hypothetical versus Actual Forgiveness ............................................................... 33 Forgiveness of Self, Others, and Situation............................................................ 34 Definitions of Religiosity, Spirituality, and Sacred Belief System .............................37 The Forgiveness Process ..............................................................................................40 Factors Affecting the Forgiveness Process ........................................................... 43 Theoretical Frameworks ..............................................................................................51 Goal Orientation Theory ....................................................................................... 52 Cognitive Restructuring Theory ........................................................................... 56 Previous Methodological Approaches .........................................................................59 Conclusion ...................................................................................................................61 Chapter 3: Research Method ..............................................................................................65 Research Design and Rationale ...................................................................................65 Rationale for IPA Design ...................................................................................... 65 Research Questions ............................................................................................... 67 Role of Researcher .......................................................................................................68 Methodology ................................................................................................................69 Participant Selection ............................................................................................. 69 Procedures for Data Collection and Follow-up .................................................... 72 Instrumentation ..................................................................................................... 73 Data Analysis Plan ................................................................................................ 75 ii Issues of Trustworthiness .............................................................................................77 Credibility ............................................................................................................. 77 Transferability ......................................................................................................