An Investigation into the Conceptualizations, Underlying Processes and Predictors of the Cognitive and Emotional Aspects of Forgiveness

To investigate the conceptualizations, processes and predictors of forgiveness from a new perspective, both cognitive and emotional aspects of forgiveness were examined. A quantitative research method was employed in an attempt to establish a two-dimensional model of forgiveness---cognitive and emotional aspects of forgiveness. Specifically, the present study added a new perspective to forgiveness by investigating definitions of forgiveness from both individualistic and collectivistic worldviews (Study 1). Forgiveness is a complex cognitive and emotional process, but the specific underlying mechanisms---cognitive and emotional processes in an intergroup context have rarely been explored. Hence, the present study sought to understand the cognitive and emotional mechanisms underlying intergroup forgiveness across cultures (Study 2). Predictors of intergroup forgiveness have been identified in existing literature, however it remains unclear if these predictors are associated with the cognitive and emotional aspects of forgiveness differently. Therefore, the present study extended previous literature by examining predictors of cognitive and emotional forgiveness in an experimental setting (Study 3).