The psychology of unforgiveness and forgiveness and implications for clinical practice

Unforgiveness and forgiveness are distinct. One cannot forgive unless unfor giveness has occurred, but one might reduce unforgiveness by many ways-only one of which is forgiveness. We present a model intended to further assist and guide subsequent empirical exploration. The model explains the persona l, relationship, and environmental factors that lead people to either unfor giveness or forgiveness. Related areas are reviewed to stimulate as yet une xplored research and clinical efforts related to forgiveness. Clinical prot ocols for promoting forgiveness in enrichment, preventative, and therapeuti c contexts are described.