In which phase of Enright’s model of psychological forgiveness, individual gains a cognitive understanding of the offender in a new light that brings a positive change in view about the offender, self and the relationship?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is Work phase.
1. In the Work phase of Enright’s model of psychological forgiveness, the individual begins to gain a deeper cognitive understanding of the offender and the situation. This phase involves a shift in perspective, where the person starts to view the offender in a more compassionate light.
2. The Work phase is characterized by changes in emotional responses, where the individual starts to see positive attributes in both the offender and themselves, leading to healing and a more positive outlook on the relationship. This phase involves cognitive reframing, where the individual understands the offender's actions and gains insight into their own role in the situation, which brings about emotional relief and growth.

Information Booster

Enright’s Model of Psychological Forgiveness

1.1. Enright’s Model of Forgiveness (developed by Robert D. Enright) is a widely recognized framework in the psychology of forgiveness. It proposes that forgiveness is a multi-phase process that involves changes in thoughts, emotions, and behaviors toward the offender.

1.2. The model outlines four phases of forgiveness, each reflecting a distinct process of emotional and cognitive change:

-Uncovering Phase: In this phase, the individual recognizes and acknowledges the emotional pain caused by the offense. It involves identifying feelings such as anger, hurt, and resentment, and confronting the reality of the emotional harm that was done.
-Decision Phase: During this phase, the individual decides to forgive. The person may experience some internal conflict because forgiveness can be perceived as an act of personal strength and moral courage. The individual chooses forgiveness despite the emotional cost.
-Work Phase: This is the most active phase where the individual gains a cognitive understanding of the offense, begins to view the offender in a new light, and experiences a shift in emotional responses. The individual accepts the offender’s humanity and the situation, leading to emotional release and growth. The person develops positive thoughts about both the offender and themselves.
-Deepening Phase: In this phase, the individual experiences lasting changes in their emotional responses and develops a deeper sense of peace. The forgiveness becomes integrated into their life, leading to long-term emotional well-being and a more positive view of the relationship, either with the offender or in the context of future relationships.

1.3. The Work phase is pivotal in Enright's model because it marks the time when the individual’s cognitive and emotional perspective shifts, fostering healing and renewed emotional strength. This phase is characterized by the active effort to understand the offender and reframe one’s emotional response, which leads to greater compassion and the release of negative emotions like anger or bitterness.

1.4. Enright's model emphasizes that forgiveness is a process, not just a decision, and it requires both emotional effort and cognitive reappraisal. The goal of forgiveness in this context is to achieve emotional healing and reduce the psychological burden of negative emotions.