Contemplating Tragedy Raises Gratifications and Fosters Self Acceptance
Despite the reflective nature of tragedy, little research has focused on reflection's impact on "pleasure" and personal growth. Drawing from entertainment, literary, and health research, this study assessed the degree to which contemplating tragedy increases gratifications and promotes self acceptance. The moderating effects of life events were also examined. In an experiment, participants (N 120) were randomly instructed to either watch a Hollywood drama and reflect, or only watch the movie (control) Results showed significant main effects on appreciation and enjoyment. Reflection increased gratifications for participants with remote loss =2 years) but not recent loss, and it strengthened the link between self perceptual depth and a 4 week change in self compassion. The benefits and drawbacks of reflecting on tragedy are discussed.