Gratitude: quick facts
Gratitude is the positive, social emotion of appreciation for a benefit received — whether from another person, circumstance, or life in general. It is one of the most studied emotions in positive psychology, where…
Category
Complex & secondary emotions
Valence
Positive
Emotion family / blend
Happiness
Typical triggers
Receiving help, kindness, or a benefit
How it's expressed
Warmth, smiling, expressions of thanks, reciprocity
Sources: Greater Good Science Center, UC Berkeley — Emotions; American Psychological Association — APA Dictionary: emotion. Educational information only — not medical or psychological advice. See our sources & fact-check policy.