Gratitude Journal Becomes Increasingly Passive-Aggressive by Week Six

A gratitude journaling practice recommended by therapist Dr. Amanda Wells has taken what she describes as 'a concerning tonal shift' in the journal of client Rachel Dumont, 38, whose entries have progressed from genuine appreciation to what Wells identifies as 'clinically significant passive aggression.' Week One entries included 'I am grateful for the warm sun on my face,' 'I am grateful for my children's laughter,' and 'I am grateful for the gift of another day.' By Week Six, entries had evolved to include: 'I am grateful that my mother-in-law's visit is only three days this time.' 'I am grateful that the person who microwaves fish in the office kitchen was out sick today.' 'I am grateful for the structural integrity of my cubicle walls, which prevent me from making eye contact with Dave.' 'The practice is working, technically,' Dr. Wells said, reviewing the journal. 'She is identifying things she's grateful for. The things have simply become more specific and, shall we say, targeted.' Dumont defended her entries, noting that 'gratitude doesn't have to be generic' and that 'being thankful that someone's cologne is less aggressive than usual is a legitimate expression of appreciation for small mercies.' The most recent entry, dated last Thursday, reads in its entirety: 'I am grateful for noise-canceling headphones, selective hearing, and the fact that I did not say what I was thinking during the 3 p.m. standup meeting. Three things. That counts.' Dr. Wells has adjusted her therapeutic approach to include 'guided re-framing exercises' and has suggested Dumont 'perhaps try gratitude toward people she actually likes.' Dumont responded that she would 'add that to the list of things I'm grateful I don't have to do.'