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How do people change? How does someone move from a state of disgrace into a place of new beginnings? Melissa Kennedy, a clinical psychologist, has found such life-altering change occurs through experiences of interpersonal grace. Interpersonal grace occurs when one individual grants another an unearned position of favor, which offers the opportunity for transformation or change. These relational aspects of grace may be found within individual relationships, as well as community relationships. The experience of grace does not negate or grant approval of events leading to disgrace, but offers acceptance with confirmation of the potentiality of the individual to make better choices in the future. Through phenomenological research, Kennedy brings together the personal stories of diverse individuals who have experienced disgrace, followed by grace. These stories illustrate how shame, guilt, and regret can be transformed through relationship creating hope, gratitude, forgiveness, and humility, the framework for new beginnings. Methodology and discussion of her findings are presented, including suggestions for promoting growth through the offering of interpersonal grace.

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Melissa Kennedy, PhD., is a clinical psychologist living in Seattle, Washington. She has a private practice providing psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Kennedy is a national award-winning psychology teacher, teaching AP¸ Psychology and AP¸ Statistics at Holy Names Academy.

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