Concept Analysis of Gratitude.

Hong,  Ju Eun; Lee,  Jung Sup

doi:2014.23.4.299

J Korean Acad Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs > Volume 23(4); 2014 > Article

Original Article

Journal of Korean Academy of psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing 2014;23(4):299-310.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12934/jkpmhn.2014.23.4.299 Published online December 31, 2014.

Concept Analysis of Gratitude.

Ju Eun Hong, Jung Sup Lee

¹Graduate School, The Hanyang University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
²College of Nursing, The Hanyang University of Korea, Seoul, Korea. ljseop@hanyang.ac.kr

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to analyze and clarify the concept of gratitude. METHODS: A review of the literature was conducted using several databases. The databases were searched using the following keywords: gratitude, positive psychology, concept analysis. Literatures related to gratitude was reviewed using the framework of Walker and Avant's conceptual analysis process. RESULTS: Gratitude can be defined by the following attributes: 1) expression of interaction, 2) power of drawing positive change, and 3) growth of phases by training and habit. The antecedents of gratitude are as follows: 1) soothing one's anger, 2) decreasing complaints, and 3) increasing expressions of gratitude. The consequences of gratitude are as follows: 1) positive change in oneself, 2) positive change in others, and 3) positive change in the environment. CONCLUSION: The theoretical definition for gratitude will provide a common understanding of this concept and differentiate it from other types of gratitude in the nursing. This clarification and conceptualization of the concept will assist further research of the concept and advance the boundaries of practical applications in nursing for various people.

Key Words: Gratitude; Positive psychology; Concept analysis