Forgiveness in Northern Ireland: A Model for Peace in the Midst of the "Troubles".

Abstract

For the past 10 years, a robust body of empirical and theoretical literature has been devoted to forgiveness within interpersonal relationships. However, only a few studies have empirically examined forgiveness in intergroup settings. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine empirically the interpersonal determinants of intergroup forgiveness within Northern Ireland. University students (N = 297) were given questionnaires that measured religiosity, empathy, contact with the other community, hope, disposition to forgive, and forgiveness of the other community. Structural Equation Modeling was used to determine a theoretical model that best fit the data. Results provided empirical support for the use of interpersonal factors in examining societal forgiveness in Northern Ireland. Implications for future research and societal interventions are discussed.