The impact of gratitude interventions on depression and stress levels in Korean American adolescents

Abstract

Problem Statement: Korean American (KA) adolescents encounter unique cultural and psychological challenges that heighten their vulnerability to depression and stress. Although there is increasing recognition of these risks, culturally tailored interventions addressing their specific mental health needs remain limited. Gratitude-based interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving psychological outcomes; however, their applicability and impact among KA adolescents remain underexplored. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of daily gratitude practices on depression, stress, and gratitude levels among KA adolescents, with the goal of informing culturally sensitive strategies to enhance adolescent mental health. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of daily gratitude interventions in reducing depression and stress levels among Korean American (KA) adolescents. Findings will offer evidence-based insights into the therapeutic benefits of gratitude practices, informing the development of culturally tailored mental health strategies to support this underserved population. Methods: A single-group pretest-posttest design was employed involving Korean American (KA) adolescents aged 12 to 18. Participants completed a daily gratitude journaling intervention over a one-week period, during which they recorded three things they were grateful for each day and composed one gratitude letter. Levels of depression, stress, and gratitude were assessed using validated psychological instruments administered both before and after the intervention. Results: The study included 15 Korean American adolescents with a mean age of 14.9 years. Following the gratitude intervention, participants demonstrated statistically significant reductions in depression and perceived stress, as well as increased levels of gratitude. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that daily gratitude journaling and gratitude letter writing intervention may serve as effective therapeutic complements in reducing depression and stress levels while enhancing positive emotions among Korean adolescents. These findings highlight the value of culturally tailored gratitude-based practices in promoting adolescent mental health and emotional well-being.