Archive for March, 2026

Do you have empirically validated evidence that forgiveness reduces what you call resentment or irritability?  If so, can you share just one study showing this?

I would recommend the study by Yu et al. (2021) in which men in a maximum-security correctional institution took about six months to forgive people who abused them in childhood or adolescence. After this forgiveness intervention, the men went on average from clinically angry to normal levels, and this remained in a follow-up assessment six months later.

Here is that reference:

Yu, L., Gambaro, M., Song, J., Teslik, M., Song, M., Komoski, M.C., Wollner, B., & Enright, R.D. (2021). Forgiveness therapy in a maximum-security correctional institution: A randomized clinical trial. Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, 28, 1457-1471..https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2583

I recently have been released from prison after a number of years. Do you have any stories of people, similar to me, who have been released and who have forgiven those who abused them when they were young?  I want to be free of this burden, and the sooner the better.

Yes, I would recommend a video by Sylvester Jackson, who was released from a maximum-security correctional institution. He has forgiven those who abused him when he was growing up.  Here is a link to that video: https://youtu.be/34GOxVE7HLI?si=Qf6v035iswJtKGnB

I am a Christian believer, and I am wondering if you can offer just one Bible passage to help me with my shame and self-condemnation. Thank you in advance for this.

I would recommend that you reflect on the ideas in Genesis 1 that all people are made in the image and likeness of God.  This idea is repeated in this same chapter.  If all people are made in God’s image, then you, too, are so made.  Given this reality, who are you as a person?  Are you more than your failings and sins in this life?  You also can confess your sins, which can alleviate guilt.

As just one more follow-up question, if I start to forgive on my own, I like your self-help book, Forgiveness Is a Choice. Would you recommend that I start there?

Yes, that book has been empirically supported, as its principles have been applied successfully in research on forgiveness interventions. If you decide to seek the help of a mental health professional, you could bring a copy of that book to this person, and both of you could discuss the contents of the book as you work on forgiveness.

Thank you for suggesting that I start forgiving soon. Would you recommend that I start with a therapist, or can I do this on my own?

You can start on your own, and if you feel stuck and need support, then finding a good therapist is recommended. Please ensure that this mental health professional is well-versed in Forgiveness Therapy.  Otherwise, the person might suggest other paths that may not be as effective as a forgiveness intervention.