Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2440/128643
Type: Thesis
Title: Closing the gap between intention and behaviour: A new measure of self-reported behavioural forgiveness
Author: Bradley, Tayla Jayne
Issue Date: 2019
School/Discipline: School of Psychology
Abstract: Forgiveness is critical to the successful functioning of human relationships, yet its inherent complexity makes it difficult to measure. The overwhelming majority of forgiveness measures are self-report, and require individuals to report on their motivations towards a transgressor. However, individuals’ reported motivations are often inconsistent with their demonstrable behaviours. This study aimed to address this inconsistency through the development of a new measure of self-reported behavioural forgiveness. Participants (N = 121) recalled a hurtful transgression and indicated whether they had performed a range of forgiveness and revenge behaviours towards the offender. Measures of transgression-specific variables, trait variables and existing forgiveness instruments were also presented. As expected, the new behavioural forgiveness measure fit a two-factor structure, distinguishing forgiveness and revenge, which were positively related. The new measure demonstrated good construct validity and internal consistency. Remorse appeared to mediate the positive relationship between forgiveness and revenge behaviours. The results suggested that individuals may act in both a vengeful and forgiving manner when transgressed against, however, this is inconsistent with previous research. Therefore, it may be important to measure forgiveness on the basis of performed behaviours, rather than reported motivations; the new behavioural forgiveness measure could provide a means for doing so.
Dissertation Note: Thesis (B.PsychSc(Hons)) -- University of Adelaide, School of Psychology, 2019
Keywords: Honours; Psychology
Description: This item is only available electronically.
Provenance: This electronic version is made publicly available by the University of Adelaide in accordance with its open access policy for student theses. Copyright in this thesis remains with the author. This thesis may incorporate third party material which has been used by the author pursuant to Fair Dealing exceptions. If you are the author of this thesis and do not wish it to be made publicly available, or you are the owner of any included third party copyright material you wish to be removed from this electronic version, please complete the take down form located at: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/legals
Appears in Collections:School of Psychology

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