Inducing gratitude leads to an increase in helping behavior, while inducing refusal leads to a decrease in this behavior. Of particular note are the community mechanisms underlying this connection; further research can explore other common factors related to gratitude and prosocial behavior, such as norms of reciprocity. While past research has focused on the subsequent helping behavior of the gratitude recipient, focusing on the behavior of the gratitude giver may provide further insight into the social function of this act. Furthermore, exploring this aspect of gratitude has potential applied effects in exploring the relationship between personal reflection on gratitude and social contribution. Previous research has also induced gratitude both in person and in written form. Greater understanding of the effects of gratitude could be found by measuring the difference in prosocial behavior between participants thanked in person or thanked remotely. With further research, we can learn more about the function and prevalence of thanks within the broader society
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