What do you do when things go right? The interpersonal and interpersonal benefits of sharing positive events. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87, 228-245. Gable, S.L., Reis, H.T., Impett, E.A., & Asher, E.R. (2004).

This article presents four studies that examine the intrapersonal and interpersonal consequences of sharing good news (i.e., capitalization). Results show communicating positive events with others increases daily positive affect and well-being, above the impact of the positive event itself. These benefits increase when others respond positively (and not passively or destructively) and is associated with higher intimacy and daily marital satisfaction in close relationships. These results highlight the theoretical and empirical importance of understanding how people “cope” with positive events, cultivate positive emotions, and enhance social bonds.