A changed perspective: How gratitude can affect sense of coherence through positive reframing

Abstract

We hypothesized that gratitude would be related to sense of coherence via positive reframing, which is a process by which negative events or circumstances are seen in a positive light. We tested this hypothesis in two studies. In Study 1 (N = 166) we found a strong, robust relationship between trait gratitude and sense of coherence above and beyond life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, happiness, and social desirability. Study 2 (N = 275) showed that gratitude at Time 1 predicted sense of coherence at Time 2, controlling for baseline scores. Positive reframing mediated the relationship between gratitude and SOC. Results are discussed in terms of their practical implications.

Keywords:

• gratitude
• sense of coherence
• positive reframing
• life meaning
• well-being

Acknowledgements

This study was made possible by grant # 90FE0022 from the Department of Health and Human Services awarded to the third author. We thank Spencer Olmstead for his assistance on a previous draft and Michelle Byno, William Barlow, and Michelle Lee for their assistance with data collection.