Forgiveness among Ghanaian children and early adolescents in the context of peer-to-peer dyads

Abstract

How children experience forgiveness within peer relationships is unknown among children in West Africa. In this study, we sought to understand the contributing factors and influences of forgiveness among children in Ghana for peer-to-peer offenses. We conducted a qualitative study on 25 participants (between the ages of 12 and 15 years) in Accra, Ghana. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify themes from semi-structured interview transcripts. Unique themes centered around the perception that forgiveness ensures relationship continuation, and that a major source of learning about forgiveness is via a religious institution. Despite a common theme that an offense undermines trust in a relationship, most participants perceived that forgiveness was the preferred option for handling the offense. Results suggest that early adolescents can benefit by learning the skill of forgiveness.