Research suggests that experiencing anger after being wronged can be a protective mechanism that encourages individuals to confront injustice and achieve their goals effectively. Multiple studies indicate that feelings of anger can enhance performance on challenging tasks, such as puzzles and video games, by providing motivation and confidence. On the other hand, forgiveness may be viewed as acceptance of mistreatment, leading to questions about whether forgiving others is a passive response rather than an active stand against injustice. Balancing these emotional responses is crucial in addressing unfair treatment.
In a recent journal article, Lench et al. (2024) showed in a series of studies that anger "has benefits for attaining goals." For example, when given very difficult puzzles to solve, it was those who became angry at not progressing who successfully and accurately completed the puzzle.
Forgiveness, on the other hand, might signal that you will accept the abuse, and so it may continue. Isn't forgiveness too passive when faced with maltreatment by others? Don't we need to stand up for ourselves?
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