D116

Gratitude Disposition

BD08 Ethics & Values
Derived LayerMML-1

Version v1.2.4

Definition

A tendency to notice received benefits and express appreciation rather than treating them as entitlements.

Poles

Each HES element is a spectrum, not a category: the Low and High poles describe how it presents at its two extremes, while the Reference marks the typical, everyday middle. The poles map variation across the range — neither end is inherently better or worse.

Low Pole

Under-notices others’ contributions; appreciation is rare.

High Pole

Regularly recognizes and expresses gratitude, reinforcing cooperation and bonds.

Reference

Grateful for large favors, but blind to everyday contributions.

Measure

Primary: Frequency — rate of noticing and expressing appreciation in comparable contexts.

Measuring Methods

Benefit-diary protocols + partner/team ratings of expressed appreciation.

Empirical Anchor

Gratitude disposition / trait gratitude (McCullough et al., 2002); GQ-6 scale; gratitude as moral affect.

Notes

Not the same as kindness: gratitude is response to receiving; kindness is giving style.

Citation

APA

Human Elements System. (2026). Gratitude Disposition (HES Passport D116, v1.2.4). hestable.com. https://hestable.com/passport/D116

BibTeX

@misc{hes_D116, author = {{Human Elements System}}, title = {{Gratitude Disposition}}, year = {2026}, note = {HES Passport D116, v1.2.4}, howpublished = {\url{https://hestable.com/passport/D116}} }