Positive psychology offers approaches that go beyond reducing forgiveness symptoms toward building the conditions for genuine flourishing.
PERMA and Forgiveness
Martin Seligman's PERMA model identifies five elements of wellbeing relevant to forgiveness:
- Positive emotions: Deliberately cultivating joy, gratitude, and pleasure alongside forgiveness treatment
- Engagement: Flow states that create absorption and counter forgiveness
- Relationships: Quality connections that buffer against forgiveness
- Meaning: Purpose that persists despite forgiveness
- Achievement: Progress toward goals, even while managing forgiveness
Signature Strengths and Forgiveness
Research shows that using your top character strengths in new ways is a robust forgiveness intervention. The VIA Character Strengths survey identifies your strengths.
Integrating Positive Psychology with Forgiveness Treatment
Positive psychology doesn't replace forgiveness treatment — it complements it. Treating forgiveness removes obstacles; positive psychology builds the structure of a fulfilling life.