Graduation Year

2024

Date of Submission

12-2023

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology

Reader 1

Stacey Doan

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Terms of Use for work posted in Scholarship@Claremont.

Rights Information

© 2023 Ashley L Sung

Abstract

This paper seeks to determine the significant influence of gratitude practices on health, with a particular focus on cardiovascular health. Gratitude is described as acknowledging and appreciating moments in life. The paper also further examines the extent to which gratitude leads to improvements in lowering blood pressure and inflammation markers, along with psychological health such as lowered depressive symptoms and stress levels. A systematic literature review was conducted. PsychInfo was used to search for terms such as gratitude and cardiovascular health. Papers were then critically evaluated. As hypothesized, the research demonstrates a profound link between gratitude practices and improved cardiovascular health. By analyzing and acknowledging the associations between gratitude, depressive symptoms, inflammation markers, stress, and blood pressure, this study highlights the great importance of a holistic approach to well-being—one that includes both the mental and physical health benefits through the practice of gratitude.

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