The concept of forgiveness often causes contradictory thoughts. Back in 1887, Friedrich Nietzsche claimed that forgiveness was a sign of weakness, and people only apologize for the benefit. In modern psychology, there is also a similar opinion. According to IZ with reference to Psyhology Today, the 2011 study showed that forgiveness could lead to repeating injustice. For example, in married couples, when one partner apologized for minor mistakes, the other more often repeated them. This raised doubts about the impact of forgiveness on self -esteem.
However, scientific studies show the opposite effect. In the process of forgiveness, a person begins to realize the value of another person, regardless of his actions. This contributes to understanding of one's own internal significance. In addition, forgiveness develops stability. The decision not to comply with aggression helps you feel control over the situation and your own strength. It is important that forgiveness does not deny fairness – a person can forgive and at the same time demand responsibility.
empirical data confirm this effect. In 2004, the dependence of people showed that those who underwent forgiveness -oriented therapy significantly increased their self -esteem. The effect was stored even four months after the end. The main thing is that real forgiveness is not just to “let go”, but a combination of mercy and demand for justice. It helps to strengthen the internal balance and find a new meaning in life.
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