We have all been taught that saying “thank you” is just good manners, but recent research in social psychology reveals that these two simple words have a much more profound impact.
Expressing gratitude goes beyond politeness—it plays a crucial role in building and maintaining social relationships.
This idea is rooted in the find-remind-and-bind theory of gratitude, developed by psychologist Sara Algoe from the University of North Carolina. According to this theory, gratitude serves several essential functions:
- Find Function: It helps initiate new social connections.
- Remind Function: It draws our attention to the value of our existing relationships.
- Bind Function: It encourages us to maintain and invest in these relationships.
Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can be both felt and expressed. Studies show that feeling and showing gratitude can lead to positive outcomes, such as increased helping behavior, greater trust, and reduced aggression. These benefits extend to both parties, making gratitude a key element in fostering healthy, supportive social bonds.
In essence, saying “thank you” is not just about being courteous—it is a vital practice for enhancing our social interactions and overall well-being.
So, the next time you express gratitude, remember that you are doing more than just following social norms; you are actively strengthening your connections with others.
Thank you for reading this post today.
I hope you have a great day ahead.
Best,
BJ