Sense of Abundance is Associated with Momentary Positive and Negative Affect: An Experience Sampling Study of Trait Gratitude in Daily Life

Abstract

Results are reported from a study examining the association between subdimensions of trait gratitude (appreciation of others, sense of abundance, and simple appreciation, SGRAT, Thomas and Watkins 2003) and daily life affective processing, in order to respond to the acknowledged need for further research on how trait gratitude may contribute to our well-being. Using experience sampling methodology actual momentary experiences of positive and negative affect were measured on 7 consecutive days in a sample of 106 respondents (63 women and 43 men, varying in age from 18 to 65 years). Multilevel regression analyses revealed that only sense of abundance was significantly associated with momentary experiences of positive affect (positive association) and negative affect (negative association) in daily life. Our findings add to the theoretical understanding of the underlying pathway of the association between trait gratitude and well-being and provide a practical starting point for gratitude interventions.