Short CommunicationCognitive correlates of gratitude among prison inmates

- Positive benefit appraisals and positive reframing uniquely predicted gratitude.
- Gratitude was negatively associated with psychological distress.
- Gratitude mediated the effects of cognitive resources on psychological distress.

This study examined two cognitive correlates of state gratitude, namely, positive benefit appraisals (positive attributions regarding help received from others) and positive reframing (viewing an experience previously perceived as negative in a more positive light) among male prison inmates. Both positive benefit appraisals and positive reframing uniquely predicted state gratitude 4 weeks later. Moreover, a multiple mediation model revealed that positive benefit appraisals and positive reframing were both indirectly associated with reduced psychological distress via their relations with state gratitude. These findings are discussed in light of how gratitude can be cultivated among individuals, particularly among prison inmates.