Exploring Gratitude Journaling in 12-Step Recovery: Effects on Attitudes, Affect, and Cravings: A Pilot Study

This study explored the emotional and attitudinal effects of gratitude journaling exercises among 12-step program attendees for substance use disorders (SUDs) and behavioral addictions. A total of 152 participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group, which completed Seligman’s “Three Good Things” exercise and a structured gratitude journal, or a control group, which engaged in a neutral journaling task. Emotional states were assessed using the positive and negative affect schedule-short form (PANAS-SF), while cravings were monitored with the Penn alcohol craving scale (PACS) to ensure the interventions did not exacerbate participants’ alcohol cravings. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant reductions in negative affect over time across all groups. The experimental group exhibited a marginally significant increase in positive affect compared to the control group. The most substantial effect was observed in PACS scores, where the experimental group demonstrated a significant reduction in cravings. Participants’ attitudes toward the exercises varied. While some found both the gratitude journal and “Three Good Things” exercises beneficial ( n = 8), others reported neither exercise as beneficial ( n = 10). These findings suggest that gratitude-focused journaling exercises, particularly the “Three Good Things” exercise, can enhance emotional resilience and reduce cravings, making them promising tools for individuals in recovery. The inclusion of the PACS ensured ethical monitoring of cravings, affirming the safety of these interventions. Future research should examine long-term adherence and the broader applicability of these interventions in diverse recovery settings.