Orientation to the psychology of self-forgiveness

In this introductory chapter, we provide an overview of the history and context of self-forgiveness research within the field of Psychology. We discuss definitions of self-forgiveness, with emphasis on theoretical and empirical quandaries that have characterized the field. We examine contexts in which self-forgiveness has been examined as a natural process, and how the process depends on factors including age, gender, and religious/cultural identity. We summarize the promise of emerging interventions designed to promote self-forgiveness. Overall, this chapter will deepen and broaden the scope of your understanding prior to engaging with the innovative, challenging, and rigorous scholars whose contributions to this handbook follow in the remaining chapters.