Forgiveness can feel complicated — especially when you’re caring for a child who has experienced trauma. This tip sheet explores what forgiveness really means, why it matters for your own health and well-being, and how to begin the journey. Drawing on research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Stanford University, it outlines the physical and emotional benefits of forgiveness, shares a real story from a Wisconsin adoptive parent, and walks through nine practical steps adapted from Dr. Fred Luskin’s evidence-based framework. Whether you’re just starting to think about forgiveness or have been wrestling with it for years, this resource meets you where you are.

 

 

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Author: Wisconsin Family Connections Center
Additional Author: Coalition for Children, Youth & Families