A socio-ecological approach to understanding the utility of kindness in promoting wellness: A conceptual paper

Kindness, characterized by behaviors of helping and goodwill, is a universal value deeply intertwined around the globe that transcends differences in individual boundaries and cultures. This conceptual paper examined the utility of kindness in promoting wellness from a socio-ecological approach. Employing targeted keywords such as “kindness” and “benefits of kindness” and utilizing three prominent academic databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, and PsycINFO), we examined empirical studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses spanning the past 15 years. To provide comprehensive insights to help advance the theoretical understanding of kindness, we reviewed how kindness is conceptualized in contemporary literature and synthesized a robust body of literature within the socio-ecological framework. Specifically, we highlighted the intrapersonal (individual) benefits of kindness as well as the benefits it exerts in interpersonal (group) settings, and the broader community. Research and practice implications of kindness are discussed.