Forgiveness: Toward an integration of theoretical models

STUDIES on forgiveness have only recently emerged in the psychological lite rature. Despite evidence that forgiveness is associated with positive thera peutic out comes, the concept has received little theoretical consideration in mainstream psychology. Existing definitions and models of forgiveness d iffer widely, and little attempt has been made to integrate these diverse a pproaches. Based on a review of the Medline and Psychlit databases, the pre sent article evaluates current conceptualizations of forgiveness in the psy chological literature. The values and limitations of each approach are disc ussed with reference to two case studies: a close interpersonal relationshi p and a human rights violation presented to the Truth and Reconciliation Co mmission in South Africa. A new theoretical model, integrating the most val uable aspects of existing approaches, is proposed.