What is the Science? While Americans may have become less trusting over the past few decades, social psychology continues to find that trust in a society brings "healthier relationships, lower crime, and even a better economy." So how can Americans learn to trust more? One study suggests that gratitude may be an important [...]

What is the Science? Psychological research suggests that, when we commit to specific practices, gratitude can become a habit that increases resilience and happiness. But how exactly does one form a habit of gratitude? Jeremy Adam Smith responds to this question by listing six key practices to which grateful people remain committed: “Once [...]

What is the Science? In their book, The Psychology of Gratitude by Robert A. Emmons and Michael E. McCullough weave together fourteen insightful essays on the science of gratitude, demonstrating that the virtue must be defined and explored by paying careful attention to not only the psychology, but also to “anthropology, philosophy, biology, [...]

What is the Science? Robert Emmons, the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude, recognizes that our cultural landscape creates obstacles to expressing thankfulness.  Finding happiness by accumulating things - materialism - generally creates a sense of entitlement, a belief that we are owed our portion of happiness.  Everything is a commodity, including relationships. [...]

Scientific research links gratitude with generosity and healthier interpersonal relationships. Research also suggests that one way to promote gratitude is to invest in experiences rather than material goods because experiences are more likely to produce deeper and longer lasting feelings of gratitude. Pastors can use sermons to nurture gratitude in congregants. Time should be [...]

What is the Science? Robert Emmons, the world’s leading expert on the science of gratitude, establishes two key components of gratitude as a social emotion: 1) we must recognize there is good in the world, and 2) we must humbly accept that this goodness comes outside of ourselves. His research shows that when people [...]

What is the Science? Robert Emmons, the world’s leading expert on the science of gratitude, makes a distinction between feeling grateful and being grateful. When hard times come, this distinction can help us maintain practices of gratitude in spite of our negative emotions. The necessary perspective that gratitude can give, while difficult to [...]