Process Evaluation of Teaching Forgiveness in a Workshop and Classroom Setting

Abstract

Forgiveness is a process that assists people in releasing their anger, resentment, and negative emotions towards those who have hurt them. This study reports a process evaluation of a psychoeducational workshop and classroom adaptation designed to teach students about forgiveness. We describe the workshop's content, process, and resources in detail. Participants were assessed before, during, and after the workshop across five process areas. The results indicate that the forgiveness workshop and classroom intervention were effective in teaching forgiveness skills, were emotionally challenging, and difficult for some participants because of their pain, confusion, and unanswered questions. We conclude with specific recommendations for improving forgiveness workshops and classroom interventions.

Key Words:

• Forgiveness
• teaching
• interventions
• evaluation
• college students