The Gift of Gratitude
Scientific research suggests that saying “thank you” is more than just a social normative behavior we learn at a young age. Indeed, gratitude has been referred to as the “social glue” that helps build new relationships and boosts existing ones—relationships that are the foundation of our society. But what exactly is gratitude? Why does expressing it matter? Does it always lead to positive outcomes?
In this this reward-eligible webinar that is part of the monthly emotional well-being webinar series presented by FEAP and Hoos Well, gain a deeper understanding of these questions, and more, as we discuss the impact gratitude has on enhancing both personal and professional connections.
Learning objectives
- Understand what it means to feel and express gratitude
- Learn outcomes associated with the expression of gratitude
- Learn what factors may influence perceptions of gratitude expressions
- Understand the impact gratitude has on building positive, interpersonal relationships—both personally and professionally
About your presenter
Ayana Younge, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Business Administration in the Leadership and Organizational Behavior area at University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. She is passionate about building positive and inclusive organizations and views interpersonal relationships as a driving force. To that end, Ayana’s research focuses on social and emotional factors that influence the processes of fostering and fortifying connections. For example, how do gratitude expressions enhance relationships? When people perceive gratitude to be inauthentic does it change their perceptions of others? What role do power dynamics play in shaping our interactions with others? In addition, she considers how our relationships impact our sense of belonging. Thus far, her work has been published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Ayana teaches the Leading Organizations Core Course and an elective titled, “People, Purpose, and the Power of Relationships” in the MBA residential program.
Prior to joining Darden, Ayana received her Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and a master’s in management from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also holds a master’s in Social Psychology from California State University, Los Angeles, as well as B.A.’s in Psychology and Communication. Furthermore, Dr. Younge is a proud member of the PhD Project and served as the 2019-2020 President of the Management Doctoral Student Association; She is now a part of the Management Faculty of Color Association.
This event will be recorded by audio and video means. By participating, you grant the University of Virginia the right to use your voice/likeness in any depiction of this event. Video is not required to participate in this event.
The University of Virginia is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. Please contact us at EmotionalWellbeing@virginia.edu, at least seven days prior to the start of this event, to request disability-related accommodations.