title: Relating trait self-control and forgiveness within prosocials and proselfs: compensatory versus synergistic models.
abstract: The present research tested 2 competing models specifying how 2 traits (concern with the well-being of others and self-control) interact to predict forgiveness. According to the compensatory model, forgiveness requires being high on either trait; according to the synergistic model, forgiveness requires being high on both traits. Two preliminary studies demonstrated the main effect of trait (Study 1a) and primed (Study 1b) self-control on forgiveness. Three primary studies consistently supported the compensatory model in predicting willingness to forgive a partner who behaves noncooperatively in a 2-alternative prisoner's dilemma (Study 2), a continuous give-some dilemma (Study 3), and a 2-alternative maximizing difference game (Study 4). Among proselfs or those low in trait forgiveness, trait self-control positively related to forgiveness, suggesting that self-control can compensate for a lack of concern with others' well-being. Implications for theory and research on forgiveness are discussed.
authors.affiliation: School of Social Sciences, Singapore Management University, Singapore.
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Balliet
authors.forename: Norman P
authors.initials: NP
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Jeff
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Joireman
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D004645:Empathy / Q000502:physiology; D061347:Forgiveness / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010551:Personality / Q000502:physiology*; D011581:Psychological Tests; D012919:Social Behavior; D055815:Young Adult