These findings were reliably
replicated in a subsequent study by the authors
after controlling for depression. In a more recent
study by Watkins, Cruz, Holben, & Kolts ( 2008 ),
the reappraising benefit of gratitude on memory
was shown to promote successful closure of
unpleasant open memories, ultimately contributing
to happiness. Therefore, gratitude enhances
the retrievability of positive experiences by
increasing elaboration of positive information.
The positive impact of gratitude on memory was
further confi rmed in a study by Watkins et al.
( 2008 ). The grateful reappraisal of upsetting
memories was shown to promote better emotional
processing and closure of the upsetting
open memories.