Effects of Executing Gratitude-Expression Skills on the Reduction of Loneliness

Abstract

In the present study, gratitude-expression skills were defined as repertoires of verbal and nonverbal behavior for expressing gratitude appropriately in social situations and effectively for the achievement of interpersonal goals, when individuals have received benefits from others. The aim of the present study was to examine effects of executing gratitude-expression skills on the reduction of loneliness. In Study 1, items for measuring the execution of gratitude-expression skills were developed. Undergraduate students （N＝422） completed a questionnaire. The results suggested that executing gratitude-expression skills had an effect on reducing loneliness through the mediation of perceived social support. In Study 2, 18 participants were assigned to a group that would be given social skills training to promote gratitude-expression skills, and 18 were assigned to a waiting-list control group. The results showed a significant effect of executing gratitude-expression skills on the reduction of loneliness. In conclusion, the results suggested the educational effectiveness of executing gratitude-expression skills.