Discover the Power of Forgiveness: Learn How to Forgive for Better Well-Being

The International Forgiveness Institute (IFI), founded in 1994 by Dr. Robert Enright, is a leading resource for those seeking to understand how to find forgiveness and integrate it into their lives.

We specialize in forgiveness education, forgiveness interventions, and forgiveness therapy, guided by the Enright Process Model of Forgiveness. This model, backed by research, has been shown to enhance psychological health, physical well-being, and overall life satisfaction.

Our site offers valuable resources at no cost, including forgiveness scales such as the widely-used Enright Forgiveness Inventory (EFI-30) and children’s forgiveness books. Whether you’re part of the general public or a mental health professional, our information is designed to help you discover the power of forgiveness in healing relationships and addressing various forms of injustice.

What is Forgiveness?

When unjustly hurt by another, we forgive when we overcome the resentment toward the offender, not by denying our right to the resentment, but instead by trying to offer the wrongdoer compassion, benevolence, and love; as we give these, we as forgivers realize that the offender does not necessarily have a right to such gifts.

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Why Forgive?

Physically, forgiveness creates a higher quality of life, a healthier body, and a more positive attitude. It can reduce anger, bitterness, resentment and depression. Spiritually, forgiveness affirms what our faith usually requires of us and, therefore, helps us live a life of integrity. Socially, forgiveness reduces anger and resentment and often leads to an improvement in personal relationships with family, friends and community.

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How to Forgive

Dr. Robert Enright, founder of the International Forgiveness Institute, has created a pathway to forgiveness that can help you forgive if you willingly choose to do so. His latest book is a hands-on guide that walks readers through the process in 8 key steps with a special focus on self-forgiveness as well as interpersonal forgiveness.

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Forgiveness Education for Grades Pre-K through 12

The International Forgiveness Institute focuses on the development of forgiveness education curricula for children in war-torn, impoverished, and/or oppressed areas of the globe.

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Forgiveness: the Path to Worldwide Peace

Forgiveness education is one path toward peace and the International Forgiveness Institute is convinced that forgiveness is the missing piece to the peace puzzle.

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Forgiveness Education Around the World          

In more than 30 countries around the world, the International Forgiveness Institute has established Forgiveness Education programs for children.

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Meet Dr. Robert Enright ~ "Forgiveness Trailblazer"

Dr. Robert Enright is the unquestioned pioneer in the scientific study of forgiveness and has been called "the forgiveness trailblazer" by Time magazine.

Quote of the Day

“Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame.”

— Benjamin Franklin

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