Gratitude

Recently, there has been much research completed on gratitude in education. Kerry Howells from the University of Tasmania has published an interesting new book titled ‘Gratitude in Education A Radical View’. Kerry Howells sums up the research with the following key points. Increased gratitude leads to:

• A greater sense of wellbeing;
• Increased optimism;
• A tendency to exercise more often;
• A decrease in depression;
• A greater sense of connectedness;
• A greater ability to deal with adversity;
• Improved relationships; and
• Greater joy and satisfaction.

Concentrating on the emotion of appreciation for prolonged periods of time not only leads to improved health, but also to enhanced cognitive ability. The research revealed that students of all ages and levels showed a significant increase in positive emotional wellbeing, classroom behaviours, learning and academic performance.

Gratitude is at the heart of all major world religions and it is a theme that commonly permeates religious cultures. Common themes in Christianity include worship with gratitude to God for His many gifts and mercies. Therefore, gratitude is not a new concept; modern positive psychology is reminding us to build it into our daily thinking again.

Gratitude has also been equated with feeling positive and is a cornerstone of Dr Seligman’s PERMA and the Positive Education Movement with strategies such as ‘What Went Well’ today. At Pacific we will continue to focus on Gratitude as a key part of Positivity.

“I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks.” – William Shakespeare

Mr Brendan Delaney, Director of Students