Time, Resentment, and Forgiveness: Impact on the Well-Being of Older Adults

Abstract

The present study explores how resentment and forgiveness can affect older people and how resentment can be alleviated or intensified over time. The investigation is based on a qualitative methodology, using life history interviews, carried out in two moments. Data were collected from 20 individuals over 65 years old. Data were subject to thematic content analysis. The results point to different negative impacts of resentment on well-being and different positive impacts of forgiveness. Our results suggest that over time a set of variables influence the experience of forgiving. Subsequent studies are needed to investigate these variables and validate intervention plans focused on forgiveness among older population.