Gratefulness makes women live cheerfully, says study

Virginia, March 16: Women, as compared to men, live more happily, merely because of the feeling of gratitude they express towards others, according to a recent study by a Virginia researcher.

Todd Kashdan, an associate professor of psychology from the George Mason University in Virginia, found in his study that women are usually brimming with the feelings of thankfulness and this quality helps them lead a cheerful, fuller life.

Kashdan said that feeling of gratitude, and positive approach towards life, along with living-in-the-moment are vital for good health. His study reveals that women are more expressive than men, especially where gratitude is concerned. He studied gender differences in human behavior and socializing.

The researcher explained that a little bit of expression of thankfulness and kindness towards others may bring in a lot of good change in one's health and since women are more grateful than men on an average, they enjoy a merrier life altogether.

"Previous studies on gratitude have suggested that there might be a difference in gender, and so we wanted to explore this further—and find out why. Even if it is a small effect, it could make a huge difference in the long run," said Kashdan.

The study, whose findings are published in the 'Journal of Personality', shows that men tend to live in tremendous stress following their inability to be expressive and grateful.

The study involved set of interviews with young college students, and its findings revealed that women feel thankful when presented with gifts, while men show an obligatory feeling when given gifts. Also, when gifted by other men, older men show negative responses.

"Because men are generally taught to control and conceal their softer emotions, this may be limiting their well-being," said Kashdan.

Kashdan, who has authored the book 'Curious?', commented that honesty in expressing thankfulness can help people live a positive and happier life. The book, which will be launched in April this year, highlights the benefits of maintaining of a positive frame of mind throughout.

This author is helping his students with the cause since 2000, helping them understand and experience more happiness by simply being grateful. He emphasized in his study that expressiveness is more or less gender-related and is important in maintaining a positive approach and living happily.