The religious path toward forgiveness

Abstract

Researchers designing forgiveness interventions often ignore religious contributions to the forgiveness process, even though many individuals draw upon their religious faith when trying to forgive. This article describes some of the similarities and differences between secular and religious forgiveness interventions, using a group intervention for divorced individuals as an example. Research findings comparing secular and religious forgiveness interventions are briefly examined. This article also examines ways in which religion might impede the forgiveness process. Finally, suggestions are provided for addressing religious issues in group interventions.