No thanks! Autonomous interpersonal style is associated with less experience and valuing of gratitude. Issue 8 (17th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Parker, Suzanne C.; Majid, Haseeb; Stewart, Kate L.; Ahrens, Anthony H.
• Is Part Of: Cognition and emotion. Volume 31:Issue 8(2017)
• Page Start: 1627
• Page End: 1637
• Publication Date: 2017-11-17
• Subjects: Positive emotions -- gratitude -- autonomy -- relationship goals -- interpersonal functioning; Cognition -- Periodicals; Emotions and cognition -- Periodicals; 155.413
• DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2016.1256274
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-9931

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Gratitude has been promoted as a beneficial emotional experience. However, gratitude is not universally experienced as positive. The current work examines whether an autonomous interpersonal style is associated with differential experience of gratitude. Study 1 found an inverse relationship between trait autonomy and both trait gratitude and positivity of response to receiving a hypothetical benefit from a friend. Study 2 replicated the finding that those higher in autonomy report less trait gratitude, and also demonstrated an inverse relationship between autonomy and valuing gratitude. Study 3 found that those higher in autonomy had more self-image goals and reduced compassionate goals in relationships, and that valuing gratitude mediated the relationship between autonomy and relationship goals. These results show a consistent inverse relationship between autonomy and the experience and valuing of gratitude, suggesting that degree of autonomy is one determinant of whether gratitude is experienced as positive.