Words Laura Potter. Photographs iStock, Shutterstock
A new piece of research could provide a winning strategy for your family Grinch this Christmas. When hostile people were encouraged to make an effort to engage in acts of kindness towards close loved ones, it significantly improved their mood. More than 640 mildly depressed volunteers took part in a two-month trial, and the most disagreeable ones showed the greatest increases in life satisfaction. Lead author Myriam Mongrain explained, ‘Disagreeable types risk getting rejected or ostracised. We found that giving them ways in which they could express empathic concern in their close relationships was tremendously helpful.’ Whether it’s a slightly grouchy uncle, curt aunt, or sulky niece, fight surliness with sweetness, and give them a job that encourages them to release their inner good Samaritan (help the little ones to cut up their lunch, watch the Queen’s speech with granny to keep her company). It could be the start of something genuinely lovely.