Eighteen statements explore forgiving yourself, other people and circumstances beyond anyone’s control.
Method and research sourcesEighteen statements explore forgiving yourself, other people and circumstances beyond anyone’s control.
Responses range from 1 to 7. Reverse items 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 using 8 minus the response. Sum items 1–6, 7–12 and 13–18 separately (6–42 each); sum all 18 for the total (18–126).
The original publication and supporting material document the questionnaire and its scoring.
Laura Y. Thompson, C. R. Snyder, Lesa Hoffman, Scott T. Michael, Heather N. Rasmussen, Laura S. Billings, Laura Heinze, Jason E. Neufeld, Hal S. Shorey, Jessica C. Roberts, Danae E. Roberts
Heartland Forgiveness Scale
Explore related experiences, practical guidance and support.
How to notice anger earlier, take a safe pause, discuss boundaries and seek help when there are threats or a risk of violence.
How to move from accusations to one practical issue, take a break without punitive silence, and check whether anything changes after the conversation.
Forgiveness does not require reconciliation, excusing harm, abandoning boundaries or staying in an unsafe relationship. A low score is not a failure or an obligation to forgive; circumstances and time matter.
