Aggression and emotional forgiveness in a group of juveniles: A two-wave study

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between anger, hostility, physical aggression, verbal aggression, and emotional forgiveness (positive emotional forgiveness and reduction of negative emotions) in a longitudinal study design. Data were analyzed from 366 juveniles aged 10–18 (M = 15.18, SD = 1.63) who completed questionnaires during two waves. The procedure for both measurements consisted of completing questionnaires measuring emotional forgiveness and aggression. In order to achieve the aim of the study, we decided to evaluate a partial cross-lagged model. Our analyses showed that the reduction in negative emotions toward the offender at T1 was a significant predictor of anger and hostility at T2. Sex was a significant covariate for verbal aggression, anger, and hostility. This study adds to the current literature by supporting previously theorized relationships. It suggests the possibility of training forgiveness skills in juveniles, reducing aggressive and potentially delinquent behavior, especially in response to injustice and events that trigger anger and hostility.