Module 6c Transcript - Self-Expansion and Forgiveness

These vocabulary flashcards cover the key concepts of the Self-Expansion Model and the psychological dimensions and factors influencing forgiveness in intimate relationships.

Self-Expansion Model

A model based on the assumptions that people naturally want to expand themselves by acquiring resources, knowledge, and skills, and that intimate relationships are a primary way individuals can expand who they are and what they are capable of.

Intrapersonal level of forgiveness

An internal shift within the individual where feelings of anger and blame dissolve into compassion, kindness, and understanding.

Interpersonal level of forgiveness

A change in outward behavior toward a partner where the individual demonstrates forgiveness and refrains from retaliation or enacting revenge.

Silent forgiveness

A state where an intrapersonal shift toward forgiveness has occurred, but it is not shown in the individual's outward behavior.

Hollow forgiveness

A state where outward behavior demonstrates forgiveness, but this shift is not reflected in the victim's true internal feelings.

Novel and arousing activities

Exciting, new, and expansive experiences that couples engage in to stave off boredom and increase marital satisfaction by providing opportunities for self-expansion.

Sincere expression of remorse

An apology quality involving the recognition and taking of responsibility for harm caused, which increases the likelihood of forgiveness.

Secure, empathic, and agreeable

Specific personality traits of a victim that make them more likely to forgive a partner after an offense.

Relationship Qualities for Forgiveness

Factors like high satisfaction and commitment that motivate partners to forgive and return the relationship to a positive state.

Forgiveness Process

An ongoing development where people understand the impact of a transgression, make sense of why it happened to determine if it can be prevented, and eventually adjust to move on.