GRATITUDE AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING: EXPLAINING THE MECHANISMS THAT YIELD POSITIVE EFFECTS ON INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING
Gratitude has been defined as a social emotion which generates numerous positive consequences on physical, mental and social well-being through the development of the ability to savor experiences, to find benefits even when facing adversity, and to develop, maintain, and increase positive relationships. However, far from leading to a state in which the effects would only benefit the individual, gratitude generates beneficial effects for others as well. Expressing gratitude generates feelings of social utility and social worth which positively impact psychological well-being of the receiving party. Beyond emotional contagion, through which relatives benefit from others’ positive emotions, gratitude opens a pathway that nurtures mutual positive relationships, thereby ensuring maintenance or increased well-being. The present article explains the mechanisms through which gratitude positively impacts individual and collective well-being, and presents further research and practical avenues.