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Brito AD, Soares AB. Well-being, character strengths, and depression in emerging adults. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1238105. [PMID: 37809290 PMCID: PMC10552671 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1238105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Emerging adulthood is a period of transition between adolescence and adulthood, during which individuals explore different roles and possibilities. This period is often characterized by high levels of stress and uncertainty, which can increase the risk of depression. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between emerging adulthood dimensions, well-being, character strengths and depression, as well as to verify the differences in the levels of these elements among different groups of depressive symptomatology. Methods Participants were 1,060 individuals (741 females, 305 males) between the ages of 18 and 30 years (M = 22.3, SD = 3.72). Spearman's correlation, linear regression, and Kruskal- Wallis with pairwise post-hoc analyses were used to analyze the data. Results There were significant positive correlations between emerging adulthood dimensions, well-being, and character strengths, and negative correlations between these variables and depression. There were also significant differences in the means of the evaluated constructs among the symptomm groups. Discussion The findings suggest that emerging adulthood dimensions, well-being, and character strengths are all associated with depression in emerging adults and have important implications for the provision of interventions in health and education for emerging adults. The study provides a deeper understanding of the factors influencing depression during emerging adulthood and emphasize the importance of promoting positive psychology elements and developing personalized interventions for emerging adults. This also suggest that public policies related to mental health and education should take into account the unique needs of emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almir Diego Brito
- Department of Psychology, Salgado de Oliveira University, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Adriana B. Soares
- Department of Psychology, Salgado de Oliveira University, Niterói, Brazil
- Department of Psychology, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Yan T, Chan CWH, Chow KM, Xiao J, Li M. Development of an evidence‑based, theory‑driven, and culturally appropriate character strengths-based intervention for breast cancer patients, following the Medical Research Council Framework. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:45. [PMID: 36525147 PMCID: PMC9755794 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07538-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To design and develop a complex, evidence‑based, theory‑driven, and culturally appropriate character strengths-based intervention (CSI) for breast cancer patients, following the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework. METHODS From 2018 September to 2020 November, a complex intervention perspective was adopted. The rationale, methods, and processes employed in carrying out the study were reported. The acceptability and feasibility of intervention program were evaluated as a part of subsequent pilot study. Based on piloting, a refined and optimized definitive intervention was obtained. The development of the intervention is an iterative process involving input from three key stakeholders: experts, medical staff, and patient representatives. RESULTS The systematic review revealed CSIs were effective and the selected theory served as a guide and indicated theory-inspired modifications. A representative team of breast cancer patients and oncology nurses collaboratively developed and tailored the intervention content and format with attention to the acceptability and feasibility. Five main strategies, including peripheral, evidential, linguistic, constituent-involving, and sociocultural strategies, were used to achieve and strengthen the cultural appropriateness. After the pilot phase, several refinements were made on the CSI program, such as editorial changes in the booklet or alternative suggestions for difficult strengths-based activities (e.g., outdoor activities). All participants not only expressed satisfaction with the program in process evaluation, but also reported perceived benefits such as enjoyable and sociable experience, better well-being, and increased confidence. CONCLUSION Consideration of the MRC framework, theory guidance, and suggestions from stakeholders during intervention development can optimize uptake and sustainability in the clinical setting. It is recommended that randomized controlled trial be used in future studies to assess the intervention, the process and the mechanisms of the intervention. Our approach may offer implications for the design and implementation of similar initiatives to support cancer patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Register Identifier: NCT04219267, 07/01/2020, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Yan
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Carmen W. H. Chan
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka Ming Chow
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jinnan Xiao
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingzi Li
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
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Sivaratnam J, Cabano EMP, Erickson TM. Character virtues prospectively predict responses to situational stressors in daily life in clinical and subclinical samples. ANXIETY, STRESS, AND COPING 2022; 35:458-473. [PMID: 34424082 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2021.1967333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Character strengths and virtues may shape responses to stressors and risk for anxious and depressive distress. However, most studies have relied on cross-sectional designs, and it remains unclear whether virtues directly predict distress in daily life or buffer context-specific stressors. We tested whether higher-order intellectual (inquisitiveness), intrapersonal (self-control), and interpersonal virtues (caring) prospectively predicted coping responses and lower symptoms, and moderated effects of specific stressors on distress. METHODS Treatment-seeking individuals diagnosed with anxiety/depression (N = 81; Study 1) and students (N = 112; Study 2) completed the VIA Inventory of Strengths survey at baseline, then experience-sampling of daily symptoms and situational responses (perceptions and/or coping strategies) over seven days (Study 1) or five weeks (Study 2). RESULTS Multilevel models generally linked virtues to more adaptive daily responses during individuals' worst and best daily events (Study 1) and worst events (Study 2), but inquisitiveness unexpectedly predicted higher symptoms in both studies. Additionally, virtues buffered against the within-person effects of specific stressor perceptions on distress (Study 2). CONCLUSIONS The relevance of character virtues for anxiety, stress, and coping may be complex, predicting higher or lower symptoms depending on both the virtue and the situational context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thane M Erickson
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA, USA
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Duan W, Kong Y, Bu H, Guan Q, Chen Z, Luo Q, Zhang J. The Online Strength-Informed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Among COVID-19-Affected Adolescents. RESEARCH ON SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE 2022; 32:465-474. [PMID: 38603081 PMCID: PMC8841394 DOI: 10.1177/10497315211067270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: This study develops and investigates the changes in anxiety symptoms and quality of life (QoL) among participants of the online Strength-informed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (SACT) across three tests. METHODS A small-scale, quasi-experiment with no control group was conducted. Repeated-measures analysis was employed to assess the changes of the three tests, which were the pre-experimental, post-test, and 3-month follow-up test. A total of 47 adolescents (ages 10-12) completed the 45-min intervention that lasted 10 weeks. RESULTS Compared with the pre-experimental, the post-test indicated significant anxiety symptoms reduction but not a statistically significant increase in QoL. The 3-month follow-up test indicated reduced anxiety symptoms and improved QoL compared with the pre-experimental. The with-in subject changes were substantial. CONCLUSIONS The online SACT is a promising model to reduce anxiety symptoms and promote QoL among adolescents during the current COVID-19 pandemic, which show both short- and long-term benefit to the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Duan
- School of Social and Public Administration, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yansi Kong
- School of Social and Public Administration, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - He Bu
- Department of Social & Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiujie Guan
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- Institute of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiansheng Luo
- Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone Huangling Primary School, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone Huangling Primary School, Wuhan, China
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Kiye S, Boysan M. Relationships between character strengths, internalising and externalising problems among adolescents: a latent class analysis. BRITISH JOURNAL OF GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2021.1872768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Semra Kiye
- Department of Guidance and Counselling, Faculty of Educational Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Boysan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ankara Social Sciences University, Ankara, Turkey
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Feraco T, Casali N, Meneghetti C. Do Strengths Converge into Virtues? An Item-, Virtue-, and Scale-Level Analysis of the Italian Values in Action Inventory of Strengths-120. J Pers Assess 2021; 104:395-407. [PMID: 34227909 DOI: 10.1080/00223891.2021.1934481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The Values in Action Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS) is a widely-used measure for character. Its factorial structure is still debated, however, and previous validation studies usually failed to examine the unidimensionality of the single character strengths. In addition, no studies to date have examined its Italian version. We validated the structure of the Italian short form of the VIA-IS in a sample of 16722 participants. Using confirmatory factor analysis and treating items as ordinal variables, we followed three simple, but too often neglected, steps: we studied the unidimensionality of the single strengths first, then their convergence into second-order virtues, and then fitted a hierarchical model that includes items, strengths and virtues, as originally proposed by Peterson and Seligman. All strengths except "love of learning" were unidimensional, and both the virtues and the final hierarchical models showed acceptable fit indices, unlike three models derived from an exploratory factor analysis. The same findings emerged for a smaller sample of 1035 participants. Finally, both character strengths and virtues showed positive relations with general mental health and negative relations with psychological distress. These results are discussed considering previous studies on the factorial structure of the VIA-IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Feraco
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.,Pentathlon Srl, Napoli, Italy
| | - Nicole Casali
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Meneghetti
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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Niemiec RM, Pearce R. The Practice of Character Strengths: Unifying Definitions, Principles, and Exploration of What's Soaring, Emerging, and Ripe With Potential in Science and in Practice. Front Psychol 2021; 11:590220. [PMID: 33584426 PMCID: PMC7873298 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.590220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
What does it mean to be “strengths-based” or to be a “strengths-based practitioner?” These are diffuse areas that are generic and ill-defined. Part of the confusion arises from the customary default of practitioners and leaders across many cultures to label anything positive or complimentary as “strengths-based,” whether that be an approach, a theoretical orientation, an intervention, or a company. Additional muddle is created by many researchers and practitioners not making distinctions between very different categories of “strength” in human beings – strengths of character, of talent/ability, of interest/passion, of skill/competency, to name a few. To add clarity and unification across professions, we offer seven characteristics and a comprehensive definition for a character strengths-based practitioner. We center on the type of strength referred to as character strengths and explore six guiding principles for understanding character strengths (e.g., character is plural; character is being and doing) and their practical corollaries. Reflecting this foundation and based on character strengths research, our longstanding work with strengths, discussions with practitioners across the globe, and a practitioner survey asking about strength practices (N = 113), we point out several character strengths practices or approaches we describe as soaring (e.g., explore and encourage signature strengths; practice strengths-spotting), emerging (e.g., the integration of mindfulness and character strengths), or ripe with potential (e.g., phasic strengths; the tempering effect; the towing effect). We use the same framework for describing general research domains. Some areas of research in character strengths are soaring with more than 25 studies (e.g., workplace/organizations), some are emerging with a handful of studies (e.g., health/medicine), and others are ripe with potential that have none or few studies yet opportunity looms large for integrating character science (e.g., peace/conflict studies). Using this framework, we seek to advance the exchange and collaboration between researcher and practitioner, as well as to advance the science and practice of character strengths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Niemiec
- VIA Institute on Character, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Li Y, Li Y, Duan W, Guan Q, Tao Y. Testing the contribution of general factor of character strengths to well-being: An exploratory bifactor approach. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-01223-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Casali N, Feraco T, Ghisi M, Meneghetti C. " Andrà tutto bene": Associations Between Character Strengths, Psychological Distress and Self-efficacy During Covid-19 Lockdown. JOURNAL OF HAPPINESS STUDIES 2020; 22:2255-2274. [PMID: 33071624 PMCID: PMC7553371 DOI: 10.1007/s10902-020-00321-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic obliged people around the world to stay home and self-isolate, with a number of negative psychological consequences. This study focuses on the protective role of character strengths in sustaining mental health and self-efficacy during lockdown. Data were collected from 944 Italian respondents (mean age = 37.24 years, SD = 14.50) by means of an online survey investigating character strengths, psychological distress and Covid-19-related self-efficacy one month after lockdown began. Using principal component analysis, four strengths factors were extracted, namely transcendence, interpersonal, openness and restraint. Regression models with second-order factors showed that transcendence strengths had a strong inverse association with psychological distress, and a positive association with self-efficacy. Regression models with single strengths identified hope, zest, prudence, love and forgiveness as the strengths most associated with distress, love and zest as the most related to self-efficacy and zest to general mental health. Openness factor and appreciation of beauty showed an unexpected direct relation with psychological distress. These results provide original evidence of the association of character strengths, and transcendence strengths in particular, with mental health and self-efficacy in a pandemic and are discussed within the field of positive psychology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Casali
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, via Venezia 8, Padua, Italy
| | - Tommaso Feraco
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, via Venezia 8, Padua, Italy
- Pentathlon Srl, Napoli, Italy
| | - Marta Ghisi
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, via Venezia 8, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Meneghetti
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, via Venezia 8, Padua, Italy
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