Date of Graduation
Fall 2026
Degree
Master of Science in Early Childhood and Family Development
Department
School of Teaching, Learning & Developmental Sciences
Committee Chair
M.H. Raza
Abstract
Adolescence is a period characterized by transition, and adolescents must navigate through changes and challenges as they age toward adulthood. Previous research has suggested that gratitude may play a role in contributing and supporting positive developmental outcomes. Two examples of these positive developmental outcomes include prosocial behavior and resilience. The present study qualitatively explores the development and expression of gratitude during adolescence and how gratitude shapes positive developmental outcomes, in particular prosocial behavior and resilience, as perceived and experienced by the adolescent participants. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data from six participants. Themes and subthemes emerged from thematic analysis, including Adolescents’ Gratitude Development and Expressions, Roles of Gratitude in Prosocial Behavior and Roles of Gratitude in Resilience
Keywords
adolescence, developmental outcome, gratitude, prosocial behavior, resilience
Subject Categories
Development Studies | Education | Mental and Social Health | Social Work
Copyright
© Amanda Burkett
Recommended Citation
Burkett, Amanda, "Gratitude and Positive Developmental Outcomes in Adolescents" (2026). Graduate Theses/Dissertations. 4114.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/4114
Open Access
Included in
Development Studies Commons, Education Commons, Mental and Social Health Commons, Social Work Commons
