Abstract
The study compares the impact of character strengths-based positive interventions in a sample of 178 adults. An experimental
group that trained strengths of the Values-in-Action classification that typically correlate highly with life satisfaction
(curiosity, gratitude, hope, humor, and zest) was compared in its gain in life satisfaction with a group that trained strengths
that usually demonstrate low correlations with life satisfaction (appreciation of beauty and excellence, creativity, kindness,
love of learning, and perspective) and a wait-list control group. If pre and post measures in life satisfaction were compared,
the group with the strengths most correlated with life satisfaction improved significantly (statistically) in their satisfaction
in comparison to a control group. This could be interpreted as support for the idea that primarily those strengths that correlate
highly with life satisfaction should be addressed in strengths-based interventions. When asked for subjective ratings of well-being
after the interventions concluded, participants in both intervention groups indicated gains above that of a wait-listed control
group. Further analyses underscore the special role of self-regulation in facilitating success in the interventions. Overall,
the data underline the potential of strength-based interventions for improving human well-being.
group that trained strengths of the Values-in-Action classification that typically correlate highly with life satisfaction
(curiosity, gratitude, hope, humor, and zest) was compared in its gain in life satisfaction with a group that trained strengths
that usually demonstrate low correlations with life satisfaction (appreciation of beauty and excellence, creativity, kindness,
love of learning, and perspective) and a wait-list control group. If pre and post measures in life satisfaction were compared,
the group with the strengths most correlated with life satisfaction improved significantly (statistically) in their satisfaction
in comparison to a control group. This could be interpreted as support for the idea that primarily those strengths that correlate
highly with life satisfaction should be addressed in strengths-based interventions. When asked for subjective ratings of well-being
after the interventions concluded, participants in both intervention groups indicated gains above that of a wait-listed control
group. Further analyses underscore the special role of self-regulation in facilitating success in the interventions. Overall,
the data underline the potential of strength-based interventions for improving human well-being.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Research Paper
- Pages 1-18
- DOI 10.1007/s10902-012-9331-9
- Authors
- René T. Proyer, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Binzmühlestrasse 14/7, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
- Willibald Ruch, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Binzmühlestrasse 14/7, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
- Claudia Buschor, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Binzmühlestrasse 14/7, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
- Journal Journal of Happiness Studies
- Online ISSN 1573-7780
- Print ISSN 1389-4978