Abstract
ABSTRACT Gentleness is a universally recognized, positive trait, yet has received minimal scientific investigation to date. To catalyze the study of gentleness, we reviewed existing literature and conducted four large-scale studies across 80,592 people. We evaluated how individuals conceptualize gentleness, developed a measurement tool, identified central correlates of gentleness, observed differences across cultures, and explored gentleness’ relationships with other constructs. The resulting measure, the Gentleness Questionnaire, demonstrated good reliability, reasonable convergent and discriminant validity, and incremental validity over a large set of other dimensions reflecting positive interpersonal functioning including the 24 character strengths of the VIA Classification and Big 5 personality traits. Connections with prosociality, desire to please, anger, confrontation, and agreeableness were strong. This cumulative work suggests a definition of gentleness as a humanity-oriented, positive trait that involves being soft, tender, and supportive to facilitate a positive experience. Future directions to advance the science and practice of gentleness are considered.
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