Forgiveness and Health in Nonmarried Dyadic Relationships

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to examine the relationships among aging, forgiveness, and health. We examine six issues that have either not received sufficient attention or that are especially salient in the field. First, we discuss evidence for age differences in forgiveness, the association of forgiveness with health and well-being, and whether there are age differences in the relationship between forgiveness and health. Second, we explain why it is important to distinguish between age, cohort, and life course effects in the aging and forgiveness literature. Third, we briefly review theoretical perspectives that suggest why people may become more forgiving as they grow older. Fourth, we discuss why forgiveness may be associated with health in late life. Fifth, we identify factors that may reduce the willingness and ability of older people to forgive. Finally, we highlight issues that may help those seeking to develop clinical applications for forgiveness in older adulthood.