An experimental study of induced gratitude on self-esteem and connectedness in romantic couples

In this project, cross-sectional data were collected and an experiment was conducted with pre- and post-measurements of the outcome variables self-esteem and connectedness. The aim of the experiment is to investigate the influence of different forms or intensities of experienced gratitude in romantic couples on self-esteem and connectedness. To this end, four experimental conditions will be compared: 1. In the first condition, general gratitude is evoked that is not related to the romantic relationship. Participants write about a situation in which they felt grateful. (B1) 2. In the second condition, gratitude for everyday aspects within the relationship is examined. Participants write about a situation in which they were grateful to their partner for something everyday. (B2) 3. In the third condition, a deeper or more intense form of gratitude is induced. Participants write about a situation in which they were grateful to their partner for a special moment or significant event. (B3) 4. These conditions are compared with a control condition in which participants write about a positive experience that has nothing to do with their romantic relationship (without gratitude induction). (B4)