| This study examined the relationships between forgiveness, physical functioning, number of physical complaints and depression among undergraduate students with and without victimization histories. It was predicted that, among all participants, forgiveness would be positively associated with physical functioning, negatively associated with number of physical complaints and negatively associated with depression. It was also predicted that, among those participants with a victimization histories, forgiveness, victimization severity and PTSD symptom severity would predict physical functioning, number of physical complaints, and depression. Participants were 25 female and 12 male students. Twenty-six participants reported a history of victimization, defined as having experienced or witnessed physical/sexual assault, attempted sexual assault/molestation, childhood physical abuse, and having experienced stalking or homicide of a loved one. Although some marginal associations were found, none of the hypotheses were supported. Nonetheless, future investigation is warranted because forgiveness has potential implications for the well-being of victimization survivors and the prevention of re-victimization. |
