It matters what you say: Exploring forgiveness-seeking scripts in interpersonal transgressions
It matters what you say: Exploring forgiveness-seeking scripts in interpersonal transgressions

Summary/Abstract: Forgiveness has been widely investigated-most of the time, using victims’ perspective. However, limited attention has been given to the nature and process of forgiveness from a transgressors’ standpoint. The primary objective of this study was to analyze the forgiveness-seeking scripts of the transgressors in interpersonal transgressions using both descriptive qualitative (Study 1; N=87) and experimental (Study 2; N=299) approaches. Study 1 provided qualitative information regarding successful forgiveness-seeking script patterns. The scripts were developed and validated through Guttman scale and Q-sort method to arrive at five (5) scripts. The successful forgiveness-seeking scripts were integrated in vignette stories which were used as priming for the experiment (Study 2), which accounted for relationships that were considered in-group or outgroup. Study 2 revealed that the successful forgiveness-seeking scripts included admitting to one’s mistake and providing resolution to the situation which was more evident when one has a close relationship with the transgressor. The amount of information discussed in the script is considered valuable in maintaining good interpersonal relationships, this study supports the research stating that relationships are moderated by forgiveness (Heintzelman, Murdock, Krycak, & Seay, 2014) and that the degree of relationship affects forgiveness (Maio, Thomas, Fincham, & Carnelley, 2008).

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