The Psychology of Grudges - Page 32

C2 Proficiency · Multiple Choice Cloze · Ready for C2 Proficiency Workbook, Macmillan

For questions 1–8, read the text below and decide which answer (A, B, C or D) best fits each gap. There is an example at the beginning.

imminent

prospective

forthcoming

impending

metamorphose

transpose

diminish

supplant

cast

borne

forsaken

befallen

ascertained

alleged

accused

attributed

what is more

let alone

even so

not to mention

grievance

affliction

reproach

hindrance

sake

sense

way

right

giving

making

taking

having

Whenever we feel hard (0) ___ , it's natural to expect an apology, or at least acknowledgement of the hurt we have endured. Should that response not be (1) ___ , however, our temporary resentment can easily (2) ___ into a long-term grudge. Grudges can be toxic for both the grudge-holder and the person against whom it is (3) ___ , who may even be blissfully unaware of the offence they are (4) ___ to have committed. Research shows that grudges may contribute to heart disease, diabetes and stress, (5) ___ the destruction of psychologically important familial and social bonds. The solution is obvious: you must let go of the grudge. Of course, this is easier said than done, especially if the sense of (6) ___ has become part of the grudge-holder's identity. The crucial first step is acceptance that the grudge exists in its own (7) ___ , independently of the factors that caused it. Only then is it possible to figure out a way to move on. This may involve (8) ___ amends with the other party, perhaps through an apology and forgiveness, or it may mean simply getting on with your life as if the grudge had never existed in the first place.

The psychology of grudges

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