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Gratitude for Categories of Needs Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

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  • Simone P. Nguyen

    (University of North Carolina Wilmington)

  • Cameron L. Gordon

    (Vancouver Island University)

Abstract

This naturalistic observation study investigated the influence of broad societal events such as the COVID-19 pandemic on public expressions of gratitude. Spontaneously produced gratitude expressions posted by individuals (N = 159) in an online discussion forum were extracted at three time periods (during the pandemic, one year pre-pandemic, and 2 years pre-pandemic). The gratitude expressions were coded for the categories of deficiency and growth needs based on Maslow’s Theory of Motivation. The results demonstrate a higher frequency of gratitude expressions for growth opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to 2 years prior. The results also demonstrate a higher frequency of gratitude for the fulfillment of deficiency needs compared to growth needs within each of the years, highlighting the overall salience of this category. These findings reveal the capacity of broad societal events to impact public gratitude expressions for needs fulfilment, which has implications for policies and programs intended to meet needs during a global crisis.

Suggested Citation

  • Simone P. Nguyen & Cameron L. Gordon, 2022. "Gratitude for Categories of Needs Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 23(6), pages 2881-2901, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:23:y:2022:i:6:d:10.1007_s10902-022-00531-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-022-00531-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Branko Vermote & Joachim Waterschoot & Sofie Morbée & Jolene Van der Kaap-Deeder & Charlotte Schrooyen & Bart Soenens & Richard Ryan & Maarten Vansteenkiste, 2022. "Do Psychological Needs Play a Role in Times of Uncertainty? Associations with Well-Being During the COVID-19 Crisis," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 23(1), pages 257-283, January.
    2. Jake M. Robinson & Paul Brindley & Ross Cameron & Danielle MacCarthy & Anna Jorgensen, 2021. "Nature’s Role in Supporting Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Geospatial and Socioecological Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-21, February.
    3. Ed Diener & Jeff Horwitz & Robert Emmons, 1985. "Happiness of the very wealthy," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 16(3), pages 263-274, April.
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