Relating trait self-control and forgiveness among prosocials and proselfs: A test of compensatory and synergistic models

D.P. Balliet, N.P. Li, J.A. Joireman

    Research output: Contribution to JournalArticleAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    The present research tested 2 competing models specifying how 2 traits (concern with the well-being of others and self-control) interact to predict forgiveness. According to the compensatory model, forgiveness requires being high on either trait; according to the synergistic model, forgiveness requires being high on both traits. Two preliminary studies demonstrated the main effect of trait (Study 1a) and primed (Study 1b) self-control on forgiveness. Three primary studies consistently supported the compensatory model in predicting willingness to forgive a partner who behaves noncooperatively in a 2-alternative prisoner's dilemma (Study 2), a continuous give-some dilemma (Study 3), and a 2-alternative maximizing difference game (Study 4). Among proselfs or those low in trait forgiveness, trait self-control positively related to forgiveness, suggesting that self-control can compensate for a lack of concern with others' well-being. Implications for theory and research on forgiveness are discussed. © 2011 American Psychological Association.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)1090-1109
    Number of pages19
    JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology
    Volume101
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2011

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