ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

2024

ECPP

European Conference

on Positive Psychology

PROGRAM | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

ABSTRACTS FROM KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Character Strengths In Zurich: A Retrospective And Future Outlook

Willibald Ruch

A quarter of a century ago, researchers began to enumerate personal characteristics that are conducive to the various fulll-

ments that make up the roots of a good life. Five years later, the character strengths and virtues handbook and classication

was published (Peterson and Seligman, 2004), followed by assessment tools, initial studies of construct and criterion validity,

and the effects of strength use. Subsequently, character strengths became the most important pillar of positive psychology

research and applications, with Zurich-based studies standing at the top (Wang, Guo & Yang, 2023). This talk will provide a

review of recent Zurich-based studies and outline future research plans. Emphasis is given to the strengths-virtue relationship,

alternative measurements, the prediction of fulllment in life, and the question whether strengths are better seen as prothetic

or metathetic continua.

Diagnosing, Nurturing And Maintaining Resilience: Tools For Positive Development In Stressed Environments

Michael Ungar

With growing interest in resilience among mental health care providers, there is a need for an effective way to think about the

complex interactions that predict which children, youth and adults will do well despite the seriousness of the challenges they

face. A focus on resilience helps us to understand individual adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies, as well as the nature

of the social and physical ecologies that facilitate processes associated with resilience. Using case examples of young people

and adults who have been exposed to high levels of adversity such as family violence, mental illness, natural disasters, forced

migration, poverty, racism and other types of social marginalization, Dr. Ungar will show how we can ‘diagnose’ resilience and

use that assessment to guide practice. He will demonstrate how thinking about resilience places clinicians in a better position

to design practical interventions that are sensitive to the individual, family, and community factors that inuence wellbeing.

Twelve factors common to successful coping under adversity and avoiding problems like depression, PTSD, and delinquency

will be discussed. This presentation will also present tools that can be used in clinical practice to change people’s social and

physical environments in ways that make resilience much more likely to occur.

Invisible People: A Missed Opportunity For Knowledge Development

Antonella Delle Fave

Psychological research on happiness and well-being gradually expanded its focus from college students and educated par-

ticipants to more diverse groups. Nevertheless, several populations are still invisible to investigation. Farmers are ignored

by researchers, yet they provide nourishment to mankind, and they comprise the majority of inhabitants in many countries.

Artisans and handicraftsmen, housewives and domestic workers play indispensable social roles worldwide, but they remain

unnoticed. Marginalized groups, such as homeless people, irregular migrants, and prisoners, are ubiquitous yet neglected in

well-being studies. Disregarding all these individuals represents a serious bias in research. Investigating their priorities, goals

and life purposes, strengths and resources, daily challenges and opportunities could shed a much more comprehensive light

on human psychological functioning, values and worldviews. Related ndings could also orient education and work policies,

inform social development trajectories, and enhance awareness of human diversity and interconnectedness.

Invisibility also affects participants who report intermediate scale ratings in well-being studies: neither very high, nor very low

happiness and satisfaction levels; neither highest nor lowest meaning perception; neither ourishing nor languishing mental

health status. These people often represent the highest percentage of study participants, and yet they are ignored in the

evaluation and interpretation of ndings. This polarization bias is rooted in a culture-bound worldview, assuming that less is

worse, more is better and well-being maximization is desirable. Considering intermediate well-being ratings from an unbiased

perspective could rather provide new knowledge and offer suggestions to build a more balanced, culture-fair and inclusive

view of human experience.

What’s Your Why? Positive Psychology Is A Means, So What Is Your End?

Corey Keyes

My ‘why’ has always been mental illness. My talk summarizes my new book, “Languishing,” which describes my own personal

and scientific journey to create a scientific body of research to address two serious problems in myself and the world, one

that wasn’t being addressed at all – languishing – in order to deal with another problem that was being addressed (mental

illness) but continues to this day with little progress (i.e., rising rates and often too brief of recovery from things like depres-

sion and anxiety). I have come to see my work and personal journey towards resilience as a gift that has guided my research

and purpose in this life. We all are all gifts that should be given by us rather than taken from or controlled by others. Science

is most gratifying when it empowers than when it exerts power, and when it creates humble teachers rather than experts.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Our Hopes, Our Fears, Our Future – Learnings From 15 Years Of Cross-Cultural And Transdisciplinary Empirical

Research

Andreas Krafft

The current experiences of a crisis-ridden world have fundamentally shaken many people‘s belief and trust in a better future.

This triggers negative feelings of anxiety and helplessness and has a massive impact on mental health, especially among

young people. Against this background, the question is, whether there still is reason for hope and, if so, what keeps our hope

alive? How we look into the future, whether with condence, fear or indifference, will determine the way we feel, think and act

in the here and now, both individually and as a community. We cannot change the past, but we have a common interest in

shaping a good and sustainable future for all. Based on the existential and multi-layered nature of hope, this keynote presents

an inter- and transdisciplinary approach to the study of individual and collective hope in different cultural contexts. It integrates

concepts of positive psychology, futures studies and pragmatist philosophy into a comprehensive model. The proposed con-

cept aims to do justice to the fundamental nature of hope by taking into account the diversity of situations in which people can

hope and being sensitive to different cultural worldviews and values. We report on research ndings gathered over the past

ten years in fourteen countries from the International Hope Barometer Research Program, which provide valuable insights

about people‘s expectations for the future, their hopes and fears for the individual and common future and their psychological

and social well-being.

Positive Psychology Coaching: Creating Sustainable Wellbeing For You, Me & Us.

Suzy Green

Within the realm of Positive Psychology, there is a growing acknowledgment of the imperative to proactively foster ourishing

among individuals, groups, and key institutions in our communities, including schools and workplaces. Over time, there has

been a discernible shift towards recognising the necessity of an integrated mental health approach encompassing risk mitiga-

tion, illness management, and the active promotion of ourishing. This keynote presentation aims to provide a comprehensive

overview of this integrated approach, shedding light on recent global initiatives, such as ISO45003, and legislative changes in

Australia that reect a commitment to its implementation, particularly in the workplace. Suzy will delve into the emerging eld

of Positive Psychology Coaching as a pivotal intervention for promoting ourishing, offering historical insights, an evidence-ba-

sed foundation, and compelling impact stories. The presentation will underscore the crucial role of Coaching Psychology when

harmoniously integrated with Positive Psychology science. This strategic alliance ensures the achievement of sustainable

shared outcomes, such as individual and collective well-being and performance. Whether applied at the individual, group, or

broader cultural level, this integrated approach represents a profound leap towards fostering enduring positive change.

ABSTRACTS FROM INVITED SPEAKERS

A Life Worth Living: Nurturing Well-Being In Cancer Patients Through Online Positive Psychology Interventions

Alena Slezackova

The development and availability of information and communication technologies and the increasing technology literacy of

the population bring unprecedented possibilities for implementing e-health interventions supporting patients‘ mental health

and well-being across diagnoses and medical fields.

This lecture will discuss the theoretical background for creating online positive psychology interventions in the clinical field

and provide an overview of verified online positive psychology programs for patients with chronic illness. We will also outli-

ne the possibilities of using online psychosocial interventions to promote mental well-being and psychological resilience in

formal and informal caregivers.

Additionally, we will share our experience with creating and implementing the MOU MindCare application for oncology pa-

tients using positive psychology interventions, mindfulness, and relaxation methods. The effectiveness of the program is

being investigated in a randomized controlled trial. Experience so far shows that introducing a mobile application into the

context of standard clinical practice and its effective use requires a comprehensive approach that considers both technolo-

gical and clinical, social and ethical aspects. Close cooperation with a broad spectrum of medical and non-medical professio-

nals can help overcome many challenges that affect patients‘ acceptance of the program and willingness to enter the study.

The first results show not only the level of effectiveness of the program but also indicate which factors increase adherence

to the e-health program and which, on the contrary, increase the risk of dropout. The analysis of patients‘ feedback on the

program shows how satisfied they were with the content, which interventions they rated as the most useful, and whether

completing the program brought any specific benefits and positive effects to their lives.

Overall, it shows that mobile applications to support the mental well-being of patients have a high potential for delivering

psychological interventions to many patients and strengthening their active participation in their mental and physical health

care.

(This work was supported by the program project of the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic with reg. No. NU22-09-

00056, and by Specific Research of Masaryk University, project No. MUNI/A/1319/2022).

Breathwork Transformation

Itai Ivtzan

Breathwork Transformation is the most powerful Breathing & Mindfulness technique you will ever experience. This is a

similar method to Rebirthing or Holotropic Breathwork. It is a therapeutic breathing practice that changes your state of

consciousness, releases your stress and negative emotions, and provides you with a feeling of peace, love, and euphoria.

Breathwork Transformation was created by Dr. Itai Ivtzan - it is a technique combining Circular Breathing + Mindfulness. Just

lay down, close your eyes, and follow the guidance of Dr. Itai Ivtzan. Workshop length: 90 minutes.

For full information and registration: https://www.schoolofpositivetransformation.com/breathwork-ecpp

#Flow Experience In The Context Of Work 4.0

Corinna Peifer

Flow experience refers to the state in which individuals are completely immersed in an activity, and demands and skills are in

optimal balance. In this state, all attention seems effortlessly focused on the current task, while time flies by. People exhibit

greater perseverance in their tasks and thereby enhance their performance when in a state of flow. Furthermore, frequent

flow experiences have a positive impact on overall well-being and positive emotions. Thus, flow experience is a state that

is particularly beneficial in the context of work. However, with the digitization and the introduction of artificial intelligence

methods, work conditions are changing, giving rise to new challenges as well as opportunities. The presentation will shed

light on the effects of modern working conditions on flow experience. Additionally, the opportunities of artificial intelligence

for researching and promoting flow experience in the workplace will be discussed.

Fourth Wave Positive Psychology: Advancing Wellbeing Science in Times of Global Crisis

Judith Mangelsdorf

In a world beset by crises, positive psychology faces a critical challenge - how can the field contribute meaningfully to the

global issues of our time? Initially rooted in an individualistic, positivistic, and Western perspective, the field has now em-

braced a more complex and systemic approach to well-being and the pursuit of a good life. Simultaneously, in the face of

escalating environmental and health crises, positive psychology is compelled to elucidate its role in tackling these global

challenges.

This presentation introduces the concept of a potential fourth wave of positive psychology -termed „globality.“ Aligning with

the waves of positivity, polarity, and complexity as proposed by Lomas and colleagues, the fourth wave envisions a concer-

ted effort to bridge the gap between the pressing global challenges of our times and the research and practice of positive

psychology.

In 2015, the United Nations unveiled the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a blueprint for steering the world in the

right direction. However, progress toward these goals has proven to be disappointing. This talk posits that a key factor hin-

dering our collective progress is the lack of personal development necessary to catalyze the processes outlined in the SDGs.

Drawing from phenomena like individual and collective post-traumatic and post-ecstatic growth, I will underscore the role

positive psychology can play in personal development within the framework of inner development goals. This approach

seeks to empower individuals to contribute to the UN‘s Sustainable Development Goals, fostering a collective effort toward

a better future.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

It’s You, It’s Me, It’s Us – How Positive Leadership Can Help Us Shape An Even Greater World

Cornelia Lucey

Have you ever wondered what behaviours a leader needs to develop and demonstrate to bring the best out of themselves

and of others? To be their most engaged and effective in leading both wellbeing and performance? And how close are we to

this right now in the working world? In this speech, Chartered leadership psychologist and author, Cornelia Lucey, will intro-

duce you to the latest research in Positive Leadership that brings many answers to these questions together. She will intro-

duce the ALIGHT model from her book on Positive Leadership (Lucey & Burke, 2022), and explain how leaders in schools and

organisations CAN and ARE using the model to alight their own and their team’s leadership to shape an even greater world.

Leaders all over the world are eager to understand the way that their leadership can be developed to lead to the best out-

comes for themselves and their colleagues and community. In psychology we refer to this as how we create optimal functio-

ning. As we constantly work in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) world, navigating the pressures of this

with adaptable leadership within our work systems is an increasing priority. With large scale disengagement at work (Gallup,

2023), increasing levels of stress and burnout (De Neve, J.-E., Kaats, M., & Ward, G.,2023; Deloitte, 2022), offering practical

solutions and real-life examples and role models for a better way of leading is an imperative way to shift the dial forward on

this. This speech will offer some solutions for you, me, and us in amplifying our leadership with sustainability.

Mattering In Co-Creating Inclusive Communities: Promoting Well-Being In Kindergartens And Communities

Through Place-Based And Future-Forming Practices And Policies.

Dina von Heimburg

Placing citizens and their assets as key actors in public value co-creation, has been a rocky journey in practice and in policy-

making. A particular challenge is how to include marginalized citizens and users to progress the mission of achieving wellbeing

for all. In this talk I address the need for democratic innovation within a comprehensive framework of “wellbeing interventions”.

The talk is based on the premise that all people need to matter – that is, to be valued and add value in their own life, in the life

of others, in work and in the wider society (Prilleltensky, 2020). Drawing on recent action research projects, I present future

forming steppingstones to reframing kindergartens and schools as place-based and rights-based anchor institutions, with gre-

at potentials for promoting equitable participation and community wellbeing. The presented studies suggest how a “parent-po-

wered” approach renders promising results by supporting inclusive relational coordination and capacity building for co-creation

in the settings of everyday life. I also suggest how kindergartens (and schools) can be used as socially inclusive platforms for

co-created and mission-oriented policymaking, by placing wellbeing for all at the heart of public values.

Pathways To Reconciliation: The Role Of Apology In Addressing Systemic Racism

Maysa Akbar

Our presentation aims to bridge the gap between research and practice, emphasizing the importance of policies and practices

that promote the well-being of communities and populations and highlighting the role of resilience in achieving ourishing at

both individual and societal levels. The proposed presentation will illuminate a critical aspect of our collective well-being—

addressing systemic racism. Furthermore, we will discuss the process of the American Psychological Association‘s apology

concerning systemic racism and its implications for advancing societal well-being. We will use the process of the American

Psychological Association‘s apology to highlight the signicance of acknowledging historical injustices, systemic discrimina-

tion, and the imperative role of apology in the journey toward reconciliation and restitution for the benet of humanity.

Our keynote presentation aims to inspire dialogue, reection, and action among conference attendees. By addressing the

pressing issue of systemic racism and showcasing the power of apology in the pursuit of reconciliation, we hope to contribute

to the overarching theme of ourishing together. We invite attendees to engage in a meaningful dialogue on these topics and

explore how we can collectively advance the well-being of individuals and society as a whole, fostering resilience and a more

inclusive and equitable world for all. We look forward to the opportunity to engage with fellow researchers, practitioners, and

advocates at the 11th European Conference on Positive Psychology as we collectively explore the interconnectedness of

human life and the ways in which positive psychology can guide us toward a brighter, more equitable future.

Positive Health: An Intersection Where The Mind Meets The Body

Jolanta Burke

Positive Health is an emerging eld of research and practice comprising two rapidly growing elds of Positive Psychology and

Lifestyle Medicine. Positive Psychology is a science of wellbeing and optimal human functioning. In contrast, Lifestyle Medici-

ne is a science of lifestyle choices that prevent non-communicable diseases (e.g. diabetes, stroke, heart disease, cancer) and

is the fastest-growing medical speciality. Together, they make a powerful union preventing mental and physical disease that

incorporates a shift towards perceiving body and mind as an integrated system and provides research and practice on how

individuals can ourish regardless of physical health. This presentation will explore the scope and architecture of this rapidly

emerging eld. It will draw on psychological research that incorporates physical and physiological health and wellbeing and

introduce the latest research and developments in Positive Health. Furthermore, it will explore the intricacies associated with

the application of Positive Health. Finally, it will discuss the implications of the emergence of Positive Health in the context of

practice and policymaking for the medical, coaching, workplace, education, and other professions to make the world a better

place for you, for me, and for us.

Prosocial Commitment, Flow, And The Limits Of Attention

Jeanne Nakamura

As past scholarship has made clear, both at any given moment and over the course of a lifetime we have only nite attention

but we face endless claims upon it; individual and collective wellbeing thus depend to a signicant degree on how this limited

attention is invested. Devoting focused and full attention to what one is doing in the present moment is one way of investing

attention. Directing attention to outcomes lying beyond the present moment – among which are included not just one’s own

future gain but also others’ future welfare – is another. In this presentation, I discuss how the investment of attention shapes

experiences of prosocial commitment (dedication to the wellbeing of others) and experiences of ow (deep, enjoyable ab-

sorption), how the two can be in tension, and how they can be in harmony. Quantitative and qualitative research ndings are

outlined. In addition, I discuss implications for the understanding of attention and its relationship to the quality of life, individual

and collective.

Wellbeing Economy – What Is Our End Goal, Money Or Happiness?

Dora Gudmundsdottir

In her presentation, Dora explores the complicated relationship between money and happiness, analysing its impact on both

individuals and societies. Highlighting alarming statistics, such as eight individuals possessing wealth equivalent to 3.6 billion

people, Dora argues that the current economic system falls short in serving the wellbeing of individuals and the planet. She

questions the shift where economic growth, initially a means to an end, has become an end goal, emphasizing the detrimental

effects on individuals, societies, and the environment.

Referencing Adam Smith‘s assertion that the value of government lies in promoting the happiness of its constituents, Dora

contends that modern societies deviate from this principle. She introduces the wellbeing economy approach, advocating for

a paradigm shift where the economy prioritizes the wellbeing of people and the planet. Drawing examples from Iceland and

other Wellbeing Economy Governments, Dora illustrates practical implementations on how the wellbeing economy approach

can be further developed to enhance wellbeing for people and the planet. The presentation encourages collaborative explora-

tion and reection on the role of this approach in fostering sustainable wellbeing for people and the planet.

What Is Bigger And Better Than Wellbeing? Introducing Wholebeing…

Andrea Downie and Aaron Jarden

‘Wellbeing’ has been the end point or holly grail for most of positive psychology’s journey to date. Intervention programs and

positive psychological interventions have largely aimed at increasing happiness, and more recently at the complex phenome-

na of wellbeing. However, we question this narrow goal and provide a vision of a bigger and better end point; an endpoint that

takes a complex systems perspective and includes wellbeing as only one facet of an ideal outcome or end point. We contend

that aiming for this new endpoint is not only a better way to achieve wellbeing, but is bigger and better than wellbeing per se.

Thus, we introduce the notion of wholebeing, dene and operationalise it, and provide the model of wholebeing as bigger and

better vision.

What You Think About, You Bring About: The Powerful Impact Of Thoughts And Beliefs On Our Lives – A Neurosci-

entic View

Michaela Brohm-Badry

Contents: If we create optimal conditions for our brain, it will promote our learning and personal growth. But how do we create

these optimal conditions? In this lecture we will explore how the structure of the brain and the path of neuroplastic develop-

ments can be used to convince the three „gatekeepers to consciousness“ (Judy Willis). The talk will provide neuroscientic

guidance on how to make your life ourish - so that the powerful inuence of thought can be used to strengthen our personal

growth.

Learning Objectives: Explore the structures of the brain that enable personal growth.

Learn about the obstacles to growth.

Find out what we can really do to convince the gatekeepers of learning and growth to become our powerful supporters.

Be inspired by what we know about brain-friendly learning and living.

Ideal audience: coaches, trainers, teachers, HR managers, applied psychologists and anyone who wants to ourish.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Why Positive Peace Matters For The Advancement Of Positive Psychology: A Pursuit For Moral Responsibility And

Activism In Dealing With Global Issues.

Helena Águeda Marujo

In the last years, positive psychology has been gradually, although palely, addressing pressing societal problems—poverty,

corruption, racism, climate change, injustice, inequality, war, and the many other critical issues facing our global and endan-

gered world.

Nevertheless, for most of its history, promoting just and well-functioning societies and minimazing social ills was mainly a side

effect, not a deliberate intention of the eld, with a few exceptions of researchers holding an interest in the orderly functioning

of society, and attending to societal, structural, and lived realities. Those exceptions, from more than a decade ago (i.e., Bis-

was-Diener et al., 2011; Csikszentmihalyi1, 2009; Marujo & Neto, 2013; Wissing & Potgieter, 2014, just to list a few), have

been mostly neglected or not followed through by mainstream positive psychology.

The leveraged of claims supporting that positive psychology is a ground for “decontextualised neoliberal ideology that causes

harm, and a capitalistic venture” (Van Zyl, Gaffaney, Van Der Vaart, Dik and Donaldson, 2023) needs to be urgently addressed,

not only for the sake of the advancement of the discipline itself, but for the sake of the response to the greater social threats

of our current distressed world.

As a eld, positive psychology can no longer downplay, or even ignore, the role of wider social and systemic factors, and con-

tinue to look at wellbeing as an individualistic enterprise. As a science and a practice, it cannot be exonerated of the profound

social responsibility to respond to communal problems, which requires public action that orbits around the institutions and

practices that sculp social, political, cultural and economic life.

This gives the discipline of positive psychology the decisive context to embrace the next Wave, one of intentional social and

political transformation, taking into consideration the conditions of life for the oppressed, excluded, underrepresented, the

ones living in the worst conditions of war or refugee camps, and all the ones who are denied the most basic human rights,

including at the level of business companies and the work force, and responding to the risks that our democracies and collec-

tive freedoms face.

For that purpose, the current note will present an historical and critical review of the way positive psychology has been dea-

ling with greater global issues. Additionally, it will use the framework of positive peace – a global public good, dened as the

attitudes, institutions and structures that generate and endure peaceful societies (Marujo, 2023) - in order to Illustrate how

positive psychology can purposefully help challenge the basic roots of the worst social problems, and effectively contributes

to the broader social, economic, political and cultural conditions in which people live.

ACCEPTED ABSTRACTS FOR ORAL PRESENTATIONS

A bibliometric review of positive psychology and well-being research in Africa

Wilson Angelina Fadiji

De Montfort University LE119BH Leicester,

The growth of the science of well-being (positive psychology; PP) is evident in the proliferation of research, especially, in

Western Educated Industrialised Rich and Democratic (WEIRD) societies. Additionally, much consideration has been to be

integrating and synthesising this growing evidence in the form of systematic, meta-analytic and bibliometric reviews. There

is a complimentary gradual but steady growth of positive psychological research in Africa. However, in the African context,

similar representation of the “state-of-the art” of PP research is minimal in the literature. In this paper, we present the ndings

of a bibliometric analysis of PP research and related well-being constructs in Africa to better understand the eld’s current

condition, hotspots of research, and thematic developmental patterns. Our ndings show that current terminologies that domi-

nate PP research also guide work on the continent. However, we also note some studies are unintentionally excluded when

purely Western theoretical terms are used. Despite the immense contribution of research in Africa to the understanding of

well-being, further exploration is still warranted in three key areas. The clarication of well-being concepts; the exploration of

contextual factors and; the need to go beyond Southern African samples. Filling this gap will provide a more comprehensive

picture of well-being, which is needed for drawing applicable meta-theoretical assumptions about what makes people thrive

and function.

A cross cultural and interdisciplinary approach to dene a workplace wellbeing framework: a case study from

United Arab Emirates

Punshi Radhika

, Gupta Gauri

, Rashid Tayyab

, Dean Gregory

The Talent Enterprise,

University of Toronto,

ADEO

Background: The burgeoning interest in comprehending workplace wellbeing and its systematic enhancement holistically is

evident. While numerous theoretical frameworks and interventions have been tested in Western countries, a research gap

exists in non-Western regions. Conducted in the United Arab Emirates, this study focused on employees in a government

entity, conceptualising core wellbeing across seven dimensions: activity, nutrition, sleep, coping, meaning, life satisfaction, and

social support; distilled into nine key enablers (Discipline, Grit, Engagement, Authenticity, Work-Life Integration, Relationships,

Digital, Financial, Environmental) and six derailers (Personal Commitments, Mindset, Work Practices, Work Culture, Work

Resources, Workplace Support).

Aims: The research sought to conceptualise a cross cultural and inter disciplinary approach to workplace wellbeing and its

measurement, identify enablers that enhance and sustain wellbeing, and recognise potential derailers hindering wellbeing

efforts. Methods: The sample (N = 309, MAge = 37.08 years, SDAge = 6.61) comprised of 56% of participants identied as

women, with 91% being Emirate natives. The study employed self-report assessments, physiological indices (including car-

diovascular health and body composition), and mental wellbeing risk assessments.

Results: Life satisfaction strongly correlated with coping, better sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. Trait enablers (Authentici-

ty, Grit, Relationships) collectively explained 43% of core wellbeing variance. Signicant negative correlations were observed

between overall wellbeing and derailers like work culture and personal commitments. Notably, employees exceeding perfor-

mance expectations also demonstrated higher mental wellbeing scores.

Conclusions: Findings offered insights into Middle Eastern workplace wellbeing, guiding culturally relevant assessment fra-

meworks.

Statistical outcomes underscored the signicance of enablers and derailers, contributing to understanding workplace dyna-

mics impacting employee wellbeing and organisational success.

A cross-sectional prole of classical musicians’ mental health and illness

Ascenso Sara

Royal Northern College of Music

Programs using the arts to promote ourishing are proliferating, with a growing research-base evidencing their potential. Intri-

guingly, when looking at workplace wellbeing literature, artists are mainly absent, even despite being a highly populated group.

Concurrently, there is a stereotype in the creative industries portraying musicians as a group with greater challenges around

mental illness than other professions, despite there being no evidence for this to date.

This study aimed to:

draw a prole of mental health and illness of classical musicians;

compare musicians’ indicators with other occupational samples.

Participants were 1014 classical musicians from 62 countries. Measures were the Mental Health Continuum - Long Form

(MHC-LF) for mental health and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) as an indicator of mental illness. The SWLS

was added as a complement measure (as the MHC-LF assesses life satisfaction with a single-item on an evaluation of life,

not satisfaction).

25.4% of musicians classied as ourishing and 53.6% as moderately mentally healthy. Personal growth and Social contri-

bution stood out as the highest rated components. 64.3% classied with no mental illness. Musicians’ K6 scores were lower

than 6 other occupational samples drawn from previous studies. Younger musicians were at greater risk for languishing and

for severe mental illness.

Classical musicians show encouraging proles both for positive mental health and for mental illness. The implications for

ourishing promotion in the music sector are discussed.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

A culturally appropriate strengths based coaching program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living

in social housing.

Brown Alison

, D’Amico Sue

University of Melbourne,

Aboriginal Housing Victoria

Background: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in social housing face common social housing challenges

of low income, higher incidence of mental health issues and poorer health along with specic challenges due to the impacts

of colonisation and its ongoing manifestations in racism and inequity. Aboriginal Housing Victoria (AHV) provides a range of

individual supports to assist renters in maintaining their tenancy along with individual and community support activities that

contribute to wellbeing. As part of this wellbeing program, AHV, has introduced a strengths-based coaching program to assist

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in social housing with working towards the attainment of self-determined

goals.

Aims: This presentation outlines the development of a culturally appropriate coaching service to Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander peoples living in social housing.

Method: An initial household survey, administered by peer researchers, was conducted in 2017 to explore the needs and

aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in social housing. A culturally appropriate coaching model

was then developed to assist renters in addressing their aspirations. As part of an evaluation of the service, qualitative data is

collected from participants about their experience of life coaching through open ended survey questions.

Results: Despite the complex lives of some participants, more than half if the initial survey participants identied aspirations

for the future. AHV subsequently developed a coaching service which involved modications to mainstream approaches to

coaching to ensure a cultural t. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander people are recruited and trained to become coaches.

Training includes a key focus on Aboriginal knowledge of social and emotional wellbeing. The initial process of life coaching is

focussed on relationship building through listening and conversation over several sessions. A range of culturally appropriate

tools and resources have been developed to enable life coaches to work with community members. The cultural load and need

for self-care of life coaches is also highlighted. Qualitative data indicates that the service is acceptable to participants and for

some effective in achieving self-determined goals. A key implementation challenge has been the turnover of coaching staff

which impacts on relationship building and the ability to provide a reliable service.

Conclusion: A culturally appropriate coaching service to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in social housing

is demonstrating benets to participants. A culturally tailored coaching model is required along with careful attention to imple-

mentation challenges to ensure the ongoing acceptability and effectiveness of the service.

A diversity of scales to measure subjective well-being: do they measure the same? A study of the subjective

well-being and its determinants in Flanders.

Verlet Dries R..

, Callens Marc

Ghent University,

Background: In the drop-off for the survey “Socio-Cultural Changes” (SCV) in 2018, the theme of subjective well-being is

central. By this we mean the way in which people experience the quality of their daily lives. But this subjective well-being has

various contents (cognitive, affective, eudaimonic) and is therefore measured in different ways. This study is inspired by the

OECD guidelines to measure subjective well-being (2013) and the European Social Survey on personal and social well-being.

Aims: Based on the 2018 SCV survey in Flanders (N=1025), we rst investigate whether and to what extent there is a corre-

lation between a number of different measurement scales for subjective well-being. Can we make a distinction between the

cognitive, affective and eudaimonic dimension?

In a second set of analyses, we examine the relationship with a number of central covariants (proverbial “determinants”) of

subjective

well-being. In addition to a number of classic background characteristics, we incorporate a diversity of internal buffers (such

as the feeling of having control over time, engagement, the subjective socio-economic positioning) and external buffers (such

as social support, connectedness and (social) optimism).

Method: In order to analyse the dimensionality of the different scales measuring subjective well-being we use principal com-

ponent analysis. For the analysis of the determinants of subjective well-being (measured by a diversity of scales), multiple

regression is used.

Results: Analysing the dimensionality of subjective well-being measures, we nnd 2 latent dimensions: cognition versus affect.

However, we don’t nd a third dimension as suggested by the OECD guidelines. Besides, several internal and external buffers

are important to beincorporated in the search for determinants of subjective well-being.

Conclusion: When measuring subjective well-being, it is important to make a distinction between the affective and cognitive

loading of the scales. Besides, in order to say something about the determinants of subjective well-being it is important to

incorporate a diversity of internal and external buffers, besides the traditional socio-demographic variables.

A Growing Concern for Meaning: Ego Development and Eudaimonic Functioning

Voevodina Elena

, Osin Evgeny

, Kostenko Vasily

HSE University,

University of Paris Nanterre

Background: Eudaimonia, in contrast to hedonia, is theorized to be a more complex type of positive functioning that is as-

sociated with personality development and maturity (Huta, 2016; Vittersø, 2016). However, the associations of psychosocial

maturity with well-being are weak and the evidence linking it with eudaimonia is quite scarce.

Aims: To ll this gap, we aimed to explore whether ego development (ED), as a measure of psychosocial maturity (Bauer,

2011; 2016), is related to eudaimonic functioning, and how the individual approaches to meaning in life are related to ED and

eudaimonia.

Method: Russian-speaking volunteers recruited online (N = 364, aged 18 to 85, 63% female) completed measures of ego

development (WUSCT, Hy & Loevinger, 1996), meaning in life (MLQ, Steger et al., 2006), lay theories of meaning (ITLM, Osin

et al., 2014), hedonic and eudaimonic motives, eudaimonic well-being (HEMA-R, Huta, 2015), and mental health (MHC-SF,

Keyes, 2009).

Results: Structure equation modeling has revealed that ED emerged as a signicant positive predictor of mental health and

this effect was fully mediated by the presence of meaning and eudaimonic motives. Higher levels of subjective concern for

meaning were associated with ED, both presence and search for meaning, eudaimonic motives, and well-being.

Conclusion: The results suggests that eudaimonia is a positive functioning that is guided by a personal concern for meaning

and might be more likely attained by individuals at higher stages of personality development.

A latent prole analysis in Italian workers: Key ingredients for Healthy organizations

Svicher Andrea

, Di Fabio Annamaria

THE-Tuscany Health Ecosystem NextGeneration UE-NRRP, Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures

and Psychology (Psychology Section), University of Florence, Florence, Italy,

Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures and Psychology (Psychology Section), University of Floren-

ce, Italy

Background: Fostering a virtuous cycle between workers’ well-being and organizational success is one of the primary goals

of Healthy Organizations.

Aims: We used latent prole analysis (LPA) to construct proles via workers’ self-rated job performance and work engage-

ment also considering key ingredients for workers’ well-being, strengths, and productivity: emotional intelligence, workplace

relational civility, acceptance of change, satisfaction with life, meaning in life, ourishing, job satisfaction, meaning at work,

ourishing at work.

Method: Three hundred and one workers from Italy were assessed through the Self-Rated Job Performance Scale (SRPS),

Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES), Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short Form (TEIQue-SF), Workplace

Relational Civility (WRC), Acceptance of Change Scale (AOC), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Meaningful Life Measure

(MLM), Flourishing Scale (FS), Job Satisfaction Scale (JS), Work as Meaning Inventory (WAMI), Flourishing Scale at work

(FSW). The SRPS and UWES functioned as indicators in Latent Prole Analysis. Differences across groups concerning TEI-

Que-SF, WRC, AOC, SWLS, MLM, FS, JSS, WAMI, FSW were calculated.

Results: A three-prole model was identied. Prole A: high performance and high engagement; Prole B: medium perfor-

mance and medium engagement; Prole C: low performance and low engagement. Prole A showed the highest levels of:

TEIQue-SF, WRC, AOC, SWLS, MLM, FS, JS, WAMI, FSW.

Conclusion: LPA showed that Prole A might represent ourishing productive workers with high well-being and strengths.

Results suggested that Emotional Intelligence, WRC, AOC, SWLS, MLM, FS, JS, WAMI, FSW could be key ingredients to pay

attention to foster workers’ well-being and organizational success for Healthy Organizations.

A Meaningful Synergy: The Integration of Character Strengths and the Three Types of Meaning in Life

Russo-Netzer Pninit

, Tarrasch Ricardo

, Niemiec Ryan M..

Achva academic college,

VIA Institute on Character, Cincinnati, OH,

Tel-Aviv University

Background: Two areas that have scientically erupted in the last two decades are the sciences of meaning and of character

strengths, yet the integration of these areas has been minimal. Some studies have drawn signicant connections between

character strengths and meaning in life; however, the samples have been limited, the measures have not measured or sepa-

rated the types of meaning, and/or the studies have not gathered data from participants on the nuances of meaning.

Aims: The study aimed to achieve the following objectives: to analyze the correlation between valid measures of meaning

components

and character strengths, to examine the relative importance of character strengths across gender and age differences, to

assess the personal signicance of one’s character strengths for achieving each of the meaning components, and to gain

insights into the reasons behind the selection of each character strength and identify gender and age differences.

Method: We conducted a large-scale, mixed methods study with 23,641 participants, spanning more than 100 countries. We

measured the 24 character strengths using the VIA Inventory of Strengths and the three components of meaning—coherence/

comprehension, signicance/mattering, and purpose—using the Multidimensional Existential Meaning Scale.

Results: Meaning scales were signicantly correlated with all character strengths. The strongest predictors of overall meaning

were hope, spirituality, zest, curiosity, and gratitude. Gender differences were found for character strengths and types of

meaning, as well as age trends.

Conclusion: The study has ramications for the scientic synergy of character strengths and meaning.

A Qualitative Examination of Character Strengths and Virtues in Intergroup Reconciliation

Bretherton Roger

University Of Lincoln

Background: This presentation argues that the VIA Classication of Strengths and Virtues (Peterson & Seligman, 2004) pro-

vides a useful foundation for Character Education (CE) generally and an effective common language for the understanding

of intergroup reconciliation specically.

Aims: It presents recent literature examining the prototypical elements of CE (McGrath et al, 2018), and the application of the

VIA Classication to the study of peace and inter-group conict (Niemiec, 2022).

Method: It then goes on to report seven interviews with experienced practitioners working in three reconciliation centres

(Rose Castle Foundation; the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation; and Reconcilers Together), located in the United

Kingdom, Canada, Egypt, and Belgium.

Results: Qualitative analysis of the data yielded 14 themes, and 32 sub-themes or codes, related to the use of Character

Strengths in the work of reconciliation.

Conclusion: While the participants represented different approaches to the reconciliation process, their ability to easily identify

constructs from the VIA Classication in the practice of reconciliation supports the usefulness of the VIA nomenclature in pro-

viding a common language for both the understanding of and educating for reconciliation.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Adapting a School-Based Positive Psychology Intervention Using the Ecological Validity Model for Middle School

Students

Shum Kai Zhuang

, Suldo Shannon

, Fefer Sarah

University of Tennessee Knoxville,

University of South Florida,

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Background: As the youth mental health crisis continues to worsen across the globe (Racine et al., 2022), there is a clear need

for more evidence- based social-emotional intervention that can be applied in schools – the setting in which youth most likely

seek and receive mental health treatment (Simon et al., 2015). It is also essential to explore ways to culturally adapt interven-

tions because marginalized students tend to face unique challenges such as cultural conicts and discrimination (Rodgers et

al., 2022).

Aims: The Ecological Validity Model (EVM; Bernal & Sáez-Santiago, 2006) provides guidance for the cultural adaptation

process. This study aimed to examine the social validity of a promising school-based positive psychology intervention (Well-

Being Promotion Program; Suldo, 2016) adapted using the EVM.

Method: This study adopts a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. A total of 98 middle school students provided

quantitative ratings of their perception of the adapted WBPP. Among those students, 70% participated in individual interviews

to provide qualitative information about their experiences with the adapted WBPP.

Results: Quantitative and qualitative ndings show that participants believed that the intervention was socially acceptable –

the content was appropriate, goals were signicant, and outcomes were important. They also requested more attention to

students’ unique life experiences and suggested incorporating more interactive activities in sessions.

Conclusion: Given this initial evidence to support the acceptability of the adapted WBPP, future studies should explore the

effectiveness of this program.

Aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Resilience and Mental Health of Emerging Adults University Students

Leontopoulou Sophie

University of Ioannina

This study explored the relationship between COVID-19 impacts and resilience in emerging adulthood during the nal two

months of the pandemic. It aimed to examine whether mental health symptoms moderated this relationship. In total, 205 uni-

versity students completed an online questionnaire survey. Regression analysis was used to examine the prediction of resilien-

ce by pandemic-related impacts, and moderation analysis was used to explore the potential moderating effect of mental health

on the relationship between impacts and resilience. The ndings failed to conrm the hypothesis that total COVID-19 impacts

would predict resilience. Rather, resource-type impacts predicted resilience [B = 0.17, p < 0.5]. Signicant partial correlations

found among resource, nancial, and psychological impacts may go some way toward clarifying connections between impacts

and resilience. The results conrmed the hypothesis that mental health symptoms would moderate the relationship between

pandemic impacts and resilience. Thus, emerging adult students with low or moderate levels of symptomatology were more

resilient, independently of the level of pandemic-related stressors they faced. Those experiencing higher levels of mental

health symptoms, in tandem with high levels of pandemic-related impacts, exhibited increasingly higher resilience levels.

These youths may be better equipped to handle severe stress and adversity thanks to skills and resources they possess and

are experienced in using. The implications of these ndings for each group of young people are discussed for their usefulness

in directing future research and interventions to foster resilience during current and future crises and health pandemics.

AI and the Future of Therapy: Enhancing Human Agency and Interpersonal Skills

Piotrowski Ralph

, Pahl Burkhard

Private Practice

Background: The application of articial intelligence promises to transform daily work practices, including those in the eld of

psychotherapy. Interactions between humans and AI will increasingly become part of our everyday experience. New devices

give a glimpse of a future in which continuous interactions with personalized AI companions will inuence our daily relational

experiences.

Aims: AI’s emerging capability to proactively engage in addition to responding to requests suggests a new dynamic in hu-

man-AI relationships. This will signicantly alter human experiences in navigating and sustaining relationships. The aim of

the presentation is to explore the potential of AI in therapy and what is necessary for human-AI interactions to foster human

agency, rather than impair it.

Method: This presentation employs a mixed-method approach, incorporating a practitioner’s perspective on current AI appli-

cations in therapy and an analysis of novel AI developments, such as the Rabbit1.

Results: While AI holds signicant promise in revolutionizing therapeutic practices, it is crucial to recognize that its ability to

foster human agency is not inherent, but rather contingent on how it is applied. The success of AI depends not only on the

technology itself but primarily on its integration with human skills.

Conclusion: The efcacy of AI in therapeutic contexts will signicantly hinge on its capacity to enhance individuals’ autonomy

within their therapeutic journeys. The critical factor for success lies in effectively managing the dynamic interactions between

humans and AI, ensuring that these relationships support the overarching goal of fostering individual agency in therapy.

An Examination of The Written Emotional Disclosure Paradigm in Women Transition to Menopause

Aydogdu Burcu Ebru

, Dirik Gülay

Dicle University,

Dokuz Eylul University

Background: The transition to menopause is a period in which psychological distress may arise, and the quality of life may

decrease. The “Written Emotional Disclosure Paradigm” (WEDP), which is based on expressing feelings, thoughts, and expe-

riences in writing in the sincerest way, may positively affect psychological and physical variables.

Aims: In this study, the aim was to investigate whether the WEDP is an effective intervention for women’s psychological well-

being in the menopausal transition period.

Methods: The participants were randomly assigned to ve groups: intervention (positive, negative, self-compassion-orien-

ted) and control (neutral writing and non-writing). Personal and Health-Related Information Form, Depression Anxiety Stress

Scale-42, Menopause-Specic Quality of Life Questionnaire, Self-Compassion Scale and Brief Version of the Difculties

in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS-16) were administered to 144 women aged 40-54 (Mean= 47.86, SD= 3.03). Mixed

ANOVAs 5x3 were used to analyze the data.

Results: The results of repeated measures mixed ANOVAs indicated that positive- and self-compassion-focused writing inter-

ventions produced positive changes in the menopause-specic quality of life and self-compassion. However negative writing

interventions didn’t produce any change in any variable.

Conclusion: The obtained results suggest that repeatedly writing about emotions, thoughts, and experiences related to the

menopausal period in a positive or self-compassionate manner could be a promising and potentially useful method during the

transition to menopausal transition. The ndings were discussed considering the current literature, providing clinical implicati-

ons, strengths and limitations of the research, and suggestions for future studies.

An investigation of the Meaning-Making Model in parents raising a child with a disability

Mavridou Anastasia

, Platsidou Maria

, Daniilidou Athena

UNIVERSITY OF MACEDONIA

According to the latest version of the Meaning Making Model (George & Park, 2016), parents raising a child with a disability

would try to interpret their experience in such a way that ts into their worldview. In their case, their global meaning (i.e.,

beliefs, goals, and subjective sense of meaning) and situational meaning (i.e., appraised meaning of the disability) may come

into discrepancy. This discrepancy may lead parents to distress. The aim of the present study is to examine all the aforemen-

tioned meaning-making components and test whether they can explain the potential distress experienced by parents raising

a disabled child.

To this end, 186 parents raising a child (under 6 years old) with a disability were tested with inventories measuring global and

situational meaning, discrepancy of meaning and psychological distress .

Results showed that parents reported moderately high means for global and situational meaning. They also reported expe-

riencing moderate discrepancy between global and situational meaning and moderately low levels of distress. Distress was

predicted primarily by the appraised situational threat (situational meaning), the goal of “importance of family life” and the

subjective sense of meaning (global meaning), and –to a lesser extend – belief violation (discrepancy).

Our ndings only partially support the Meaning Making Model for this population and suggest the need to revise it. They also

provide useful guidelines for better counseling for families of people with disabilities, which can help to reduce parental stress

and strengthen their mental health.

Antecedents and outcomes of work-related ow: A meta-analysis

Liu Wei

, Lu Hairong

, Li Peikai

, Van Der Linden Dimitri

, Bakker Arnold B..

2,4

East China Normal University,

Erasmus University Rotterdam,

University of Leeds,

University of Johannesburg

Flow is an optimal state that contributes positively to individual well-being and performance. Despite growing evidence of

its antecedents and outcomes at work, few efforts have been made to systematically examine and synthesize the extant

ndings to advance the theoretical and empirical development of ow. Combining different perspectives (e.g., job demands

and resources theory, proactivity and leadership literatures), we aim to identify the key antecedents and outcomes relevant

to work-related ow, and (a) provide a nomological network and (b) spot areas for future research on ow. We conducted a

meta-analysis to synthesize ndings (N = 60,110, k = 113). Results showed that several factors, including job characteristics,

individual characteristics, individual behaviors, and leadership characteristics were signicantly related to ow. Individual be-

havior displayed the strongest association with ow (ρ = 0.55). In addition, ow was not only related to job outcomes but also

to personal outcomes. We also investigated the relative contribution of sub-dimensions of ow to well-being and performance.

The relationships between ow and its associates hold across different measures of ow and culture. Our ndings suggest

that employees can use more proactive strategies to foster ow rather than only respond to their environment. Despite the

short-run side effects of ow (e.g., risk-taking behavior), ow is worth pursuing in the long run as it benets both work and

personal well-being. We encourage future ow studies to investigate additional social and situational factors and various types

of proactive behaviors in a multilevel process.

Are Character Strengths WEIRD or not? Exploring the Cultural Relevance of Character Strengths Across Eurasia

Mubashar Tahira

1,2

, Weber-Harzer Marco

, Harzer Claudia

Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg,

University of the Punjab, Lahore

Background: Over a couple of decades, positive psychologists have focused on human strengths that facilitate an individual’s

ability to live better. However, like other psychological research and theories, positive psychology has been criticized for being

a WEIRD science (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic). Further, some researchers argue that character

strengths are oversimplied and do not provide a better understanding of diverse cultures. To probe if character strengths

are WEIRD (or not), evidence needs to be collected from participants with diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses.

Aims: To partly address this concern, our research aimed to explore perceptions about the cultural relevance of character

strengths in Eurasia approaching participants of WEIRD and non-WEIRD countries.

Method: Taking insight from Biswas-Diener (2006), we developed the Cultural Relevance of Character Strengths Survey

(CRCSS) and collected data from four countries across Eurasia (n = 52 Germany, n = 76 Russia, n = 288 Pakistan, and n =

74 China).

Results: The results indicated that character strengths were appreciated by a vast majority of the participants (70-90 %) from

Eurasia on different aspects of the relevance of character strengths (existence, importance, helpfulness, encouragement,

application, parent’s desirability, established cultural practices, and institutions for the development of character strengths)

with few exceptions. In addition, we observed some differences regarding the perceived practices of character strengths by

gender and age groups.

Conclusion: Overall, the ndings provided consistent evidence on the ubiquity of character strengths across Eurasia advoca-

ting that character strengths are not a culture-specic phenomenon but rather more than just a WEIRD science.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Associations Between Parental and Child Well-Being Indicators: Preliminary Results from a Three-Wave Longitudi-

nal Survey

Tadic Maja

, Brajša Žganec Andreja

, Džida Marija

Institute of social sciences Ivo Pilar,

Background: Given the shared environment, close bonds, and the similarities in genetic predispositions, parents’ and their

children’s well-being is assumed to be highly intertwined as parents provide the main socioemotional context in which children

develop and function; however, the associations between different children’s and parental positive well-being indicators have

not yet been thoroughly examined in the longer-term.

Aims: To gain more insight into these matters, this study aims to present preliminary results on the associations between pa-

rental and children’s well-being indicators measured throughout three years (i.e., three measurements waves).

Method: This study is a part of a longitudinal project „Child Well-Being in Family Context (CHILD-WELL)” nanced by the

Croatian Science Foundation. The study involved 895 mother and/or father-child pairs. The children in the study are primary

school children (54.2 female), aged 9 to 13 years (M = 11.43, SD = 1.16). All three waves assessed children’s and parents’

happiness, life satisfaction, and positive and negative affect.

Results: The preliminary descriptive and correlation analyses showed mostly small and positive, statistically signicant corre-

lations between parents’ and children’s positive well-being indicators between three measurement and demonstrated that the

associations between parents’ negative emotions and children’s well-being indicators were more complex and less straightfor-

ward. In the study we discuss these ndings.

Conclusion: The current study supports the idea that parents’ well-being represents context highly important for children’s well-

being and resilience, but that the type of the well-being indicators used has important implications for ndings interpretation.

Building individual meta-objectives to co-create and execute solutions in a multicultural context

Vallejo Echavarria Isabel

Motiva Coaching

The need for integrating individual objectives with team, group and environmental objectives is imperative. While it is gene-

rally agreed that cultures are a shared social knowledge and understanding that reects in values and beliefs (Yang, Wang &

Drewry 2006) the natural implication of a culture’s impact on implicit individual goals hasn’t received much attention. These

implicit goals are meta- objectives that guide the individual. The purpose of this methodology is to become aware of them, take

ownership and self-build meta- objectives for you today, that enable you to create a better life in a multicultural, global setting.

This method has been tried in coaching, mentoring and supervision

An innite or meta-goal is an overarching goal that is present in all our decisions, something that denes us. Our rst meta-

goals have been given to us by our culture: our families, traditions, then by school, later at work. Multicultural environments

give us the opportunity to see these meta-objectives, and ne-tune them, update them to our present reality. A meta-goal or

innite goal is necessary as it gives continuity to our actions, our projects, it doesn’t have an expiry date, it’s an ideal. You

build your meta-objective, and from there create actionable shorter term objectives. And this has to be done with serenity, with

mindfulness.

Taking ownership of your implicit values and objectives has a double effect, it makes the motivation for achieving goals more

autonomous, and makes every smaller objective a reward in itself. It is a positive path to self fullment

Building Inner Strength: The Contribution of Self-Compassion to the Resilience of Adolescents from Divorced Fam-

ilies in Makassar

Umniyah Saleh

Universitas Hasanuddin

Adolescents from divorced families often experience psychological distress stemming from signicant life changes and per-

ceive their circumstances as distinct from those of intact families. It is crucial for adolescents with divorced parents to cultivate

resilience, recognizing that setbacks or challenges are not insurmountable, but rather opportunities for personal growth and

learning. Resilience, dened as an individual’s capacity to rebound from adverse circumstances and respond constructively

to difculties, plays a pivotal role in this process. Self-compassion, a practice of extending kindness to oneself, emerges as a

valuable resource aiding individuals in navigating challenges and enhancing resilience.

This study endeavors to explore the relationship between self-compassion and resilience among adolescents from divorced

families in Makassar City. The research includes 102 participants, aged 15-20 years, with divorced parents, selected through

purposive sampling. Data collection involves the administration of the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and the Resilience

Quotient (RQ). Utilizing simple regression analysis with a signicance level of 0.00 (P < 0.05), the ndings indicate a positive

contribution of self-compassion to resilience in adolescents from divorced families in Makassar City. The correlation coefcient

of 0.131 suggests that higher levels of self- compassion correspond to increased resilience among these adolescents. The

nurturing role of self-compassion in enhancing individual resilience manifests through self-care, attention, and self-support

during challenging situations, facilitating coping with the ramications of parental divorce.

Can adolescents and adults recognize positive mental health like mental illness? An experimental mixed methods

study

Carvalho Mariana

, Vale-Dias Maria Da Luz

, Keyes Corey

Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences University of Coimbra,

Department of Sociology, Emory University

Mental health literacy (MHL) entails literacy regarding both positive mental health and mental illness. Nevertheless, most of

MHL programs and measures neglected positive mental health. In positive mental health operationalizations, ourishing and

languishing are distinct diagnoses from mental illness. But, no study has yet examined the capacity for the identication of

these diagnoses in vignettes. This study followed an experimental design and aimed to 1) validate four video based vignet-

tes of the dual mental illness and mental health model: ourishing, languishing, mental disorder (depression) and moderate

mental health (anxiety symptoms and well-being symptoms) developed and adapted for adolescents and adults; 2) tested the

efcacy of the videos, accompanied by expert explanations, as an intervention, to promote- MHL. A sample of n = 30 adole-

scents and n = 30 adults responded to sociobiographic data, the Positive Mental Health Literacy Scale (PosMHLit), the Mental

Health Literacy Questionnaire (MHLq), and several questions regarding each video presented. Most adolescents and adults

in the experimental groups were able to identify ourishing and depression, but not languishing and moderate mental health.

Differences were not found though t-test statistics between nor within groups, except for PosMHLit in adolescents. The results

suggest this intervention did not improve general MHL, nevertheless, the sample size could have inuenced this nding. This

research should be replicated with larger samples.

Can Flourishing protect against Occupational Depression? A Comparison between General and Special Education

Teachers

Angelini Giacomo

, Fiorilli Caterina

LUMSA University of Rome,

LUMSA University of Rome

Teaching students with Special Needs can be a very stressful challenge. However, cultivating personal resources can reduce

the risk of burnout and depression. Flourishing is a state of optimal functioning that allows one to experience a sense of

purpose and fulllment in their personal and professional lives. Previous studies show ourishing reduces occupational de-

pression, but no one has investigated this relationship by comparing general teachers (GET) and Special Educational Tea-

chers (SET). The present study aims to dene different teachers’ proles based on their levels of ourishing, occupational

depression, and demographic-professional characteristics. Moreover, the GET vs. SET moderating role has been analyzed in

the relationship between ourishing and occupational depression. Participants were 448 Italian teachers (26-67; Mage=40.32

years, SD=9.01; Female, 85.5%), of which 312 SET (69.6%). The Occupational Depression Inventory and Flourishing Scale

were administered. The TwoStep Cluster analysis identied two clusters: A) Flourishing teachers (68.3%) and B) Languishing

teachers (31.7%). One-way ANOVA shows signicant differences for ODI (F1,446=9.55; p<0.01), FS (F1,446=4.83; p<0.05),

and career (F1,446=21.446; p<0.001) between the two groups. Interestingly, the SETs group shows low ODI and high FS

levels (χ2=443.29; p<0.001). Moderation analysis shows that SET reduces the effect of FS on ODI (effect=-0.186, SE=0.04,

p<.001; 95% CI [Boot LLCI=-0.266, Boot ULCI=-0.105]). Results are discussed considering the role of ourishing and personal

resources as a protective factor for Special Education Teachers.

Can Goal-Setting and Self-Reection About One’s Work–Nonwork Boundaries Improve Boundary Fit and Subjective

Well-Being? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Mueller Nicolas

1,2

, Haerdter Larissa

, Scholz Margaretha

, Steinke Julia

, Haun Verena C.

, Kempen Regina

Aalen University of Applied Sciences,

University of Osnabrueck,

University of Wuerzburg

Background: Many employees struggle with aligning their preferred and enacted work–nonwork boundaries (boundary t) in

the modern workplace, impairing their subjective well-being (SWB). However, action regulation theory suggests that goal-set-

ting and self-reection can help employees improve their boundary t.

Aims: We designed a self-guided 2-week microintervention promoting goal-setting and self-reection about one’s work–

nonwork boundaries. Our study aims to evaluate whether participation in this intervention increases boundary t and SWB.

Method: We used a randomized waitlist control group design to evaluate the intervention effects, with 93 employees parti-

cipating in pre- intervention (T1) and post-intervention (T2) questionnaires and 77 participating at a 2-week follow-up (T3).

Participants were randomly assigned to three groups. All of them received information about boundary management. Between

T1 and T2, Group 1 participants engaged in goal-setting and self-reection tasks, Group 2 participants completed goal-set-

ting tasks only, and Group 3 participants undertook neither goal-setting nor self-reection tasks. Besides the T1, T2, and T3

assessments, we measured the outcomes daily during the 2-week self-reection periods of the three groups (Level-1 N = 663;

Level-2 N = 83).

Results: Mixed-design variance of analyses revealed that Group 1 participants, compared to Group 2 and Group 3 partici-

pants, showed improvements in boundary t and SWB. Parallel growth curve analyses revealed log-linear change trajectories

in both outcomes, with a signicant relationship between their growth factors.

Conclusion: The ndings highlight the positive impact of our self-guided 2-week microintervention. Specically, goal-setting

and self-reection about work–nonwork boundaries can increase boundary t and SWB.

Challenges of Implementing Positive Leadership Interventions into Cross-Cultural Teams

Hoffmeister Mike

, Muller Dr Roger

Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences,

Nelson Mandela University,

Background: The business world has become more global, and so has the workplace. Thus, working in cross-cultural teams

requires intercultural competencies. Positive Leadership provides compelling research results and interventions to motivate

and engage employees while ensuring their well-being. However, many managers still have an ethnocentric approach. This

approach leads to misunderstanding and disengagement in cross-cultural teams. There is a need to adjust interventions of

Positive Leadership to different cultures.

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Aims: To determine the differences and similarities in value patterns of respective cultures.

To explore the utilization of Positive Leadership interventions in cross-cultural team leadership.

To evaluate the adaptation of Positive Leadership interventions to the respective cultures.

To establish the outcomes and consequences of Positive Leadership in an intercultural context.

Method:

Deductive research approach; quantitative; survey using online questionnaires.

Time: February until April 2024.

Sample:

Non-probability, convenience sampling Method: Bachelor and Master students, as well as young professionals

Nationalities: India, South Africa, the USA, Germany and Turkey

Size: 500 respondents

Data Analysis: Descriptive and inferential statistics

Results: A pre-study on meaning and purpose shows the necessity to adapt the intervention of Positive Leadership in diffe-

rent cultures. This study will evaluate culturally based attitudes towards spirituality, emotions, hierarchy, working styles, time

and conict management, and self-realization.

Conclusion: It is vital to adapt Positive Leadership interventions to lead cross-cultural teams effectively. The empirical re-

search will be done in the upcoming Spring Semester.

Chance and Choice: Determinism and Decision making

Langley Sue

Langley Group

We all like to believe we have choices, that we are free to make decisions, yet how much of life is linked to luck or chance.

Genes and determinism suggest that our present and future are already written, yet we also know that those who believe in

free will tend to be ‘happier’ than those who don’t. Genetics and the environment come together to impact who we are and

how happy we can be. With wellbeing now at the forefront of workplace policy, global politics and sustainability for the future

this is a topic that needs more exploration.

This presentation will draw together research on free will and determinism (Sapolsky, 2023; Kreiman, Liljenstrom, Schurger

and Maoz, 2022), genetics (Bartels, 2015), the microbiome (Cryan, 2023) and decision making (Markus and Schwartz, 2010;

Wilson and Gilbert, 2003).

We will explore what chance and choices / luck and decisions mean in a practical sense for the wellbeing of humans around

the world. Drawing conclusions from the research the results provide practical tools for individuals and groups.

Changes in the well-being and turnover intentions of employees by training the PERMA lead behaviour of their

managers

Nesemann Frank

ourishing people, 10245 Berlin

Meine Arbeit erforscht den Einuss eines Positive-Leadership-Trainings (PLTs) auf das Verhalten von Führungskräften sowie

auf die Fluktuationsabsichten und das Wohlbenden von Mitarbeitenden im Rahmen einer experimentellen Feldstudie, welche

die erste deutschlandweite Studie zu diesem Thema überhaupt darstellt. Es wird unter sucht, ob und wie stark das PLT das

Verhalten der Führungskräfte im Sinne der PERMA-Lead-Kriterien verbessert, die Erwartungen an gute Führung mehr erfüllt,

die Fluktuationsabsichten der Mitarbeitenden verringert und deren Wohlbenden steigert.

Führungskräfte einer Behörde wurden in eine Trainingsgruppe, die an einem PLT teilnahm, und in eine Kontrollgruppe einge-

teilt. Alle Mitarbeitenden der Führungskräfte wurden durch Befragungen einbezogen. Der Gesamtstichprobenumfang lag bei n

= 129. Mithilfe von Varianzanalysen mit Messwiederholungen und Korrelationsberechnungen wurde festgestellt, dass das PLT

die Fremdeinschätzung des PERMA-Lead-Verhaltens der Führungskräfte signikant verbesserte (p < .001). Diese von den

Mitarbeitenden wahrgenommene Verbesserung führte zur Reduzierung der Fluktuationsabsichten und steigendem Wohlbe-

nden. Erwartungen an ein ideales Führungsverhalten konnten stärker erfüllt werden. In der Kontrollgruppe hingehen sanken

die Fremdeinschätzung und das Wohlbenden, die Fluktuationsabsichten stiegen an. Die Erwartungen wurden weniger erfüllt.

Es wurde erstmalig gezeigt, dass ein PLT an einer Behörde eine wirksame Maßnahme ist, um die Qualität der Führung im

Sinne der PERMA-Lead-Kriterien zu steigern, was direkt auf die Fluktuationsabsichten und das Wohlbenden der Mitarbei-

tenden wirkt. Somit kann die Mitarbeiterbindung verbessert werden.

Ein höheres Wohlbenden wiederum steht in engem Zusammenhang mit Burnout Gefährdung, Gesundheit und Leistungsfä-

higkeit von Mitarbeitenden (Bellingan et al., 2023). Die Studienergebnisse der Forschung unterstreichen somit die Bedeutung

eines PLTs als Instrument der Führungskräfteentwicklung. Als weitere Implikation kann demnach abgeleitet werden, dass ein

PLT bei Einbeziehung aller Führungskräfte zu nachhaltigen Veränderungen im Führungsverhalten und somit zu einer ver-

besserten Führungskultur beitragen kann.

Character Strength-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Focusing on Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients

with Distress: A Randomized Control Trial of Positive Psychology

Zhou Yi

1,2

, Luo Yating

, Qin Ning

, Duan Yinglong

, Xie Jianfei

1,2

Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University,

Department of Nursing, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University

Background: Positive psychological psychotherapy has been assessed for its efcacy in adolescents and young adults (AYA)

with cancer, yielding moderate effectiveness in alleviating distress. However, there’s a scarcity of detailed insights into the

specic therapeutic interventions required to offer relief from distress in this population.

Aims: This study is aimed at evaluating and comparing the efcacy of Character Strength-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

(CS-CBT) and conventional Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in reducing distress in AYA cancer patients.

Method: Employing a randomized controlled three-arm trial approach, cancer patients aged between 15 and 39 were random-

ly allocated to one of the three groups: CS-CBT, CBT, and a control group. After an 8-week intervention, data were collected

immediately, and at 1 and 3 months post-intervention. Primary outcomes included levels of distress, anxiety, and depression,

and secondary outcomes focused on thriving and quality of life.

Results: A cohort of 162 adolescent and young adult (AYA) participants was equitably allocated across three distinctive

groups. Remarkably, the group subjected to Character Strength-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CS-CBT) exhibited

a substantial enhancement in primary outcomes, outperforming both the conventional Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

group and the control group signicantly. When considering the quality of life, CS-CBT did not display a pronounced superiority

over conventional CBT.

Conclusion: The outcomes of this research bolster the effectiveness of utilizing CS-CBT as an intervention in mitigating di-

stress and fostering a sense of thriving among AYA cancer patients. CS-CBT’s impact on quality of life mirrored that of con-

ventional CBT, without signicant enhancements.

Character Strengths of Employees with Protector Roles: Understanding their Role for Persuasion Skills, Workplace

Well-being, Job Performance, and Career Success

Harzer Claudia

, Mubashar Tahira

1,2

, Mitchel Scott

Department of Psychology, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg,

Institute of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore,

Open Compliance & Ethics Group (OCEG), Arizona,

Background: Over one trillion dollars are destroyed every year because of unprincipled misconduct and miscalculations

(https://www.oceg.org/ideas/what-is-grc/). Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) professionals (aka protectors) are ex-

pected to lead the way to producing and preserving value, achieving objectives, addressing uncertainty, and acting with

integrity to solve this problem.

Aims: Within this context, it is worth exploring which character strengths may enable protectors to perform their crucial roles

in organizations. To get rst insights, the study aimed at identifying (1) the most strongly possessed character strengths, and

2) the character strengths with the highest correlations with persuasion skills, workplace well-being, job performance, and

career success.

Method: Data was collected from 592 protectors from different GRC professions and job levels. The participants provided data

on study variables answering reliable and valid measures.

Results: Love of learning, honesty, kindness, and fairness were among the top seven strengths across different GRC profes-

sions and job levels. Character strengths correlated positively with persuasion skills, well-being, job performance, and career

success. Leadership, zest, and perspective were among the strengths which most often showed signicant and relevant

correlations (r >= .25). Other strengths were relevant as well depending on the outcome analyzed. For example, for job per-

formance also love of learning, honesty, and fairness were relevant; bravery and social intelligence for persuasion skills.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that character strengths play an essential role in protectors. The results will facilitate de-

velopment of targeted interventions to enhance the protectors’ outcomes, ultimately leading to improved GRC systems within

organizations.

Character strengths proles of Taiwanese medical students and their correlations with life satisfaction

Lin Wen-Hsu

, Chiao Chi

1,2

, Ming-Chang Tsai

, Chung Yi-Fang

, Yi Chin-Chun

Institute of Health and Welfare Policy, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University,

Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University,,

Research Center for Humanity and Social Science, Academia Sinica,

Institute of Sociology, Academia Sinica

Background: Current research on character strengths proles of medical students has predominantly centered on Euro-

pean contexts, leaving a notable void in cross-cultural investigations. Despite recognizing the positive inuence of character

strengths on life satisfaction (LS) within this group, there is a conspicuous dearth in analogous inquiries for Asian medical

students. This study addresses this gap by scrutinizing a cohort of Taiwanese medical students, posing three central inquiries:

(1) Top ve character strengths of Taiwanese medical students; (2) Associations between character strengths and LS; (3) The

extent to which character strengths mitigate depression’s adverse impact on LS.

Method: In this investigation, 298 medical students (mean age = 20.7) from a public medical university in Northern Taiwan

participated. Mandarin VIA-120 gauged character strengths, while the Patient Health Questionnaire (α = .85) and Diener et

al.’s LS scale (α = .87) measured depression and life satisfaction. Rigorous inclusion of relevant control variables enhanced

methodological robustness.

Findings: The results indicated that top ve signature character strengths were: honesty, judgment, kindness, love, and team-

work. Results demonstrated a positive correlation between character strength and LS (β = .73, p < .01). Additionally, a signi-

cant protective effect was observed for character strength (β = .66, p < .05) in mitigating the impact of depression.

Conclusions: This study illuminates similarities in top ve character strengths of Taiwanese medical students compared to

their European counterparts. It underscores the potential health benets of promoting character strength in medical education.

Co-creating whole school wellbeing: A mixed-methods case study into the use of Appreciative Inquiry in a UK

Primary School

Roberts Frederika

University of Derby,

Background: Frederika Roberts’s doctoral research supports her professional practice as a trainer, speaker, lecturer and

author applying Positive Psychology (PP) to education.

Appreciative Inquiry (AI), a strengths-based, positive emotions-fuelled change process, is a natural partner for PP, particularly

the PERMA model.

Aims: Frederika’s research aims to explore the use of AI in schools alongside any wellbeing outcomes.

Method: The qualitative data instruments in this single-school concurrent mixed methods case study are: eld diary, partici-

pant-generated artefacts, semi-structured interviews, photographs and videos. Quantitative data instruments are: validated

wellbeing questionnaires; PERMA-Proler (adults) and EPOCH (children).

There are six data collection points:

1 - Before AI,

2 - the “AI Summit” and planning,

3 - immediately post-AI Summit,

4, 5, 6 - at 6, 12 and 18 months post-AI Summit respectively.

Data will be iteratively analysed to induce themes for further exploration.

Results: The research is now at data point 4. In addition to eld diary notes, artefacts and photographs, 26 adults and 17

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It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

children have been interviewed (data points 3 & 4), 29 adults and 142 children have completed baseline questionnaires (data

point 1), and 29 adults and 251 children have completed follow-up questionnaires to date (data points 3 & 4). Interim results

will be presented at ECPP2024.

Conclusion: Emerging themes include appreciation, connection, and children’s voice. Early indications are that the AI process

may be linked to improvements in wellbeing components, and that this study will provide useful insights into the AI process.

Coping with Gender Minority Stress: Inuence of Coping, Social Support and Community on Stress in Genderqueer

Youth

O’Rourke Teresa

1,2

, Zach Lisa

, Haider Katja

, Koschier Alexandra

, Probst Thomas

University for Continuing Education Krems,

University of Vienna,

Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg

Background: In genderqueer adolescents, the risk for negative mental health is 5x higher than in cis youth, but data on this

demographic group is scarce.

Aims: The objectives of this study are to 1) assess both risk and protective factors for gender minority stress in genderqueer

youth.

Method: A mixed-method ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study was conducted with the mobile application ESMira

in November 2023. Sociodemographic variables, gender minority stress, mental health, and coping were assessed at baseli-

ne. Stress and coping were assessed daily over 14 days. Linear multilevel models were conducted with R to test the effects of

risk and protective factors on stress. Online Interviews were conducted to extend the understanding on which gender-specic

stressors genderqueer youth were faced with, and how they coped with them.

Results: A total of 123 participants, aged 14 to 21 (M=18.7) completed the baseline questionnaire. The sample reached a high

gender diversity including 35 cis female, 4 cis male, 28 trans male, 25 non-binary, 8 genderuid, 5 agender individuals and

more gender identities. We will present results of quantitative analyses and qualitative interviews on which stressors gender-

queer youth were faced with and focus on protective factors such as effective coping strategies, social support and community.

Conclusion: Results of this study will add important data to the striking research gap concerning the mental health of LGBTQ+

youth in Austria and contribute scientic grounding for mental health promotion strategies for genderqueer youth.

Courage to be happy: risk-taking as a mediator of the relationship between psychological courage and well-being

Pajestka Grzegorz

, Poraj-Weder Magdalena

University of Opole, Opole,

The Maria Grzegorzewska University, Warsaw,

Courage is one of the core virtues, and, as such, it is viewed as contributing to a meaningful and fullling life as opposed to

risk-taking, which is rather associated with negative consequences for well-being (Campbell et al., 2016). However, unders-

tood as sensation seeking, it may lead to positive outcomes, including positive affect, increased life satisfaction, or a sense of

fulllment (Hardie-Bick & Bonner, 2016; McKay et al., 2018). In our study, we explored the role of instrumental and stimulating

risk-taking (IRT and SRT) in mediating between psychological courage (PC) and two types of well-being: eudemonic (EWB)

and hedonic (HWB). We hypothesized that PC would predict both types of well-being and that IRT and SRT would account for

these relationships, each uniquely. A sample of

471 adults aged 18-65 years (52.7% women) was recruited. They completed the Stimulating-Instrumental Risk Inventory, the

Flourishing Scale (measuring EWB), the Scale of Positive and Negative Experience and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (mea-

suring HWB), and the Courage Measure. We found that PC was directly and indirectly related to the two types of well-being.

IRT accounted for the indirect relationship between PC and EWB, whereas SRT accounted for the relationship between PC

and HWB but only measured as life satisfaction and negative experience. The results of our study, although exploratory, shed

light on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between PC and well-being. They also lead to the conclusion that living a

good life requires courage, regardless of how this good life is dened.

COVID-19 Long-term Impact: Exploring Character Strengths Change in Different Age Groups

Amoury Naddaf Sahar

, Lavy Shiri

Haifa university

Background and Aims: Numerous studies have demonstrated the negative impact of COVID-19 crisis on people worldwide.

However, post-traumatic growth (PTG) literature suggests that crises can also positively impact individuals, by promoting their

personal growth. Furthermore, such impact on personal growth can vary among individuals at different ages. Development of

individuals’ character strengths can serve as an indicator for such positive growth following adversity, and was also examined

for this goal during COVID-19. In the present study we further explored long-term changes in character strengths following the

pandemic among individuals from different age groups.

Method: Data was collected online by the VIA Institute on Character, and comprised 1243 English-speaking participants who

completed the VIA Inventory of Strengths prior to the pandemic (April 2019-December 2020; T1) and again after the pandemic

(January 2021-February 2022; T2).

Results: MANOVA of the entire sample revealed an overall increase in character strengths (with medium effect size) and in-

creases in seven character strengths: self-regulation (large effect), perseverance (medium-large effect), fairness, forgiveness

and gratitude (medium effect), and appreciation of beauty and excellence and judgement (small effect). Further analyses of

specic age groups indicated differences in the number and characteristics of strengths that changed in different ages.

Conclusion: The ndings provide some support for long-term development of character strengths following the pandemic, and

further indicate age- related differences in the nature of this development.

Creative Arts and Human Flourishing (Thematic Analysis of Leaders Participating in a 21 - Day Creative Arts Inter-

vention)

Friberg Patricia

, Giraldez-Hayes Dr. Andrea

Patricia Friberg Coaching 6006 Lucerne,

University of East London

Today’s leaders have increased job demands while navigating the ever-changing corporate climate, thus making it challen-

ging to experience human ourishing or the continued development of human beings toward optimal potential (Levin, 2020).

This study explored the lived experiences of leaders participating in a 21-day creative arts intervention. Thirteen professional

leaders participated in the intervention, utilizing self-selected art modalities, including music, visual arts, attending art exhibiti-

ons and concerts, creative writing, and dance. Qualitative data was collected and interpreted from a single-point post-interven-

tion interview using Thematic Analysis. Four master themes were identied past exposure, creative arts practice, well-being,

and leadership. The ndings indicated that human ourishing, including health, can be achieved, through the arts, whether

consumed or made. Unexpectedly, positive outcomes and improvements in teaming and productivity were indicated within this

limited research. Future quantitative research is recommended to measure the impact of the arts and humanities on human

ourishing across a larger sample.

Decent Work and Quality Professional Life of Higher Education Teachers in Portugal: an empirical study

Ferraro Tânia

1,2

, Pacheco Patrícia A..

Universidade Portucalense,

Research on Economics, Management and Information Technologies (REMIT)

Background: Decent work (DW) concept refers to fair and adequate working conditions, guaranting workers opportunity to

develop skills and potential, as well as healthy human interactions and dignied and respectful treatment, especially concer-

ning respect for human rights at work. In turn, the QWL focuses on the practices that promote workers’ physical, mental, and

social well-being, contributing to job satisfaction and increased productivity.

Aims: The present study explores the interaction between DW and Quality-of-Working-Life (QWL) for Higher-Education-Tea-

chers in Portugal.

Method: 350 Higher-Education-teachers from Portugal participated in this study. The Decent Work Questionnaire (DWQ) and

Quality-of-Work- Life-Scale (QWLS) were applied. Simple and multiple linear regressions were carried out between the DWQ

and QWL dimensions. Finally, the analysis of canonical correlations between the dimensions of the DWQ and QWLS was

performed.

Results: The statistical analysis showed the data’s adequacy to the tested models; simple and multiple linear regressions and

canonical correlations identied signicant interactions.

Discussion and Final Remarks: The results showed that DW is a powerful predictor of QWL, furthermore, they showed the

importance of (a) having an adequate- compensation-system to meet family/economic needs; (b) experiencing adequate-ti-

me-and-workload to meet the teachers social-needs and, in addition, so that they can meet their aesthetic/creative needs at

work and outside; nally, (c) the perception of promoting health- and-safety-at-work to meet the workers’ needs in this area.

In sum, the perception of work as dignied is essential in promoting QWL in the professional activities of higher-education-

teachers.

Future studies on DW and the facets of QWL could enrich this study area. Decent Work; Quality of Working Life; Teachers;

Higher Education, SDG8.

Direct and Mediated Impacts of Parental Democratic Communication on Adolescent Well- being: Insights from the

2020 Chinese Family Panel Studies

Liu Simin

1,1

, Su Lanxin

2,2

, Hu Sydney X.

Hunan Normal University School of Medicine,

Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau,

Hunan Normal University School of Medicine,

Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau,

Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau

Background: In a rapidly evolving socio-technological era, understanding the impact of parenting practices on youth resilience

is more vital than ever. This study investigates links between parental democratic communication and key markers of adole-

scent adjustment and well-being.

Aims: The aim was to examine the direct effects of parental democratic communication on Chinese adolescents’ subjective

well-being and to investigate how societal trust and emotional state mediate this relationship.

Method: Data from 493 high school students aged 16-17 in the 2020 Chinese Family Panel Studies (CFPS) were analyzed

using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM).

Results: The SEM analysis revealed a signicant direct effect of Parental Democratic Communication on adolescents’ Subjec-

tive Well- being (β= 0.27, p < 0.001). Trusting Society, inuenced positively by parental communication (β= 0.20, p < 0.001),

enhanced Subjective Well-being (β= 0.36, p < 0.001) and reduced Negative Emotion (β= -0.17, p < 0.01). Pleasant Life, also

affected positively (β= 0.31, p < 0.001), contributed to increased Well-being (β= 0.14, p < 0.05) and decreased Negative

Emotion (β= -0.30, p < 0.001). Negative Emotion, reduced by parental communication (β= -0.15, p < 0.05), had a strong

inverse effect on Well-being (β= -0.32, p < 0.001). The model showed strong t indices (GFI = 0.953, RMSEA = 0.042).

Conclusion: Parental Democratic Communication plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of Chinese adolescents

directly, and indirectly, through factors like societal trust and emotional health. These insights call for integrated approaches

that consider family dynamics and social emotional inuences in fostering youth resilience.

Do daily leader and colleague behaviours matter for work effort? The role of daily basic psychological need satis-

faction and frustration.

Coxen Lynelle

1,2

, Van Der Vaart Leoni

3,1

, Van Den Broeck Anja

4,1

, Rothmann Sebastiaan

, Schreurs Bert

Optentia Research Unit, North-West University,

School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, North-

West University,

Department of Psychology, The Norwegian University of Science and Technology,

Department of Work and Organisation Studies, Faculty of Economics and Business, KU Leuven,

Faculty of Social Sciences and Solvay Business School, Vrije Universiteit Brussel

The study sheds light on the within-person (i.e., daily) processes through which interpersonal behaviours associate with work

effort. Existing studies focus on need-supportive interpersonal behaviours, while need-thwarting behaviours in relation to work

effort, has been largely overlooked as important an outcome. This paper aims to understand the effects of daily leader and

colleague behaviours on daily work effort via daily need satisfaction and frustration. Employees completed daily diaries for

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It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

10 days (N = 68). The data were analysed with multilevel structural equation modelling. The results revealed a dual-process

model, where daily need-supportive behaviours of the leader and colleagues were positively related to work effort via need

satisfaction. Daily need-thwarting behaviours related negatively to work effort via need frustration. Daily need satisfaction had

a stronger association with work effort than daily need frustration. Organisations could prioritise interventions to enhance daily

need-supportive interpersonal interactions as it is benecial for daily need satisfaction and subsequent work effort.

Do we change when we think we have changed? Personality changes in the context of crucial life events

Nazina Ekaterina

, Kostenko Vasily

National Research University Higher School of Economics,

Background: The theories of ego development (Loevinger, 1976) and basic psychological needs (Ryan, 1995) contradict the

ideas about the main driving forces of personality change.

Aims: The report is aimed at developing and integrating the theory of ego development and the theory of basic psychological

needs through the study of memories of crucial life events (CLE).

Method: The study sample consisted of 179 people (151 female; M = 28; SD = 5,907). The study has a longitudinal design.

Results: The initial level of ego development in the group with CLE experience did not differ from the group without such

experience (U(N = 94, N = 49) = 2260, z = - .198 , p < .843). At the second stage, the level of ego development turned out to

be signicantly higher in the group with CLE experience than in the group without it (U(N = 95, N = 50) = 1771, z = -2.681,

p < .01). A retrospective assessment of the initial level of ego development turned out to be lower than the real assessment

(T = 484.5, z = -4.184, p < .001). The level of satisfaction of all basic psychological needs signicantly increased in the CLE

experience group.

Conclusion: The results indicate a possible connection between the phenomenon of crucial life events and the satisfaction of

basic psychological needs with maintaining the level of ego development, as well as increasing the level of satisfaction of basic

psychological needs. This brings new light to our knowledge about the processes of personality change.

Does Fun at Work Enhance Meaningful Work? A Three-Wave Study towards Innovative Work Behaviours

Ghafoor Azka

, Brougham David

Otago University,

Massey University

Background: Meaningful work is understood to have many benets including performance. However, the additional potential

benets of having a fun at work attitude remain untested. Under conservation of resources (COR) theory, having greater

meaning and fun a fun attitude should provide more resources to inuence innovative work behaviours (IWBs).

Aims: Explores the direct and interaction effects between meaningful work and fun at work attitude towards IWBs.

Method: A three-wave study (six-weeks between waves) of 277 New Zealand employees, testing direct and interaction effects

using structural equation modelling. The sample was roughly representative of the New Zealand population on age, gender,

and ethnicity. Analysis controlled for age and tenure.

Results: Time 1 meaningful work, fun at work, and IWBs are all positively related to later time values of each other, although

time 1

IWBs is fully mediated by time 2 IWBs. The direct effect of meaningful work across time on IWBs across time is broadly signi-

cant, although time 3 meaningful work is not signicantly related to time 3 IWBs. No signicant direct effects towards IWBs

were found for fun at work across all three time-periods. The only signicant interaction effects are found for time 1 meaningful

work and fun at work interacting towards IWBs times 1, 2 and 3, leading to greater IWBs over time for when meaning and fun

are high.

Conclusion: Findings show that meaningful work can be even more benecial for employees with a fun at work attitude. The

additional resources provided (under COR theory) enable enhanced IWBs.

Effectiveness of Nature-based Positive Psychology Interventions on well-being:

A Systematic Review and meta-analysis

Ruan Xingjian

, Kraiss Jannis

, Tonis Kim

, Rompay Thomas Van

, Bohlmeijer Ernst

Department of Psychology, Health, and Technology, University of Twente,

Department of Communication Science, University of Twente

Background: Extensive research has explored the effects of mindfulness-based nature interventions on well-being. Recently,

there is also a growing interest in combining nature interventions with positive psychological strategies such as savoring.

However, so far no systematic review investigated to what extent combining nature contact with positive psychological strate-

gies leads to enhanced effects on mental/spiritual well-being.

Aims: Identifying and analyzing Nature-Based Positive Psychological Interventions (NBPPIs) beyond mindfulness. Specical-

ly, identifying the most promising positive psychological strategies combined with nature.

Method: Employing a systematic review and meta-analysis. This study dened NBPPIs as interventions with the primary aim

of improving well-being and combining nature settings/elements with positive psychological strategies (savoring, gratitude,

kindness, promoting relationships, and creating meaning). And we include both mental and spiritual well-being as well-being.

A total of 1238 records were extracted from six databases with the date period from Jan 1998 to Dec 2023.

Results: Screening identied eight RCT studies combining nature with the Savoring strategy. The difference in pre-post effect

sizes between nature and control conditions was computed. Preliminary results show that the effect sizes of NBPPIs on well-

being dimensions range from small (g= .22) to very large (g=3.71).

Conclusion: This review identied that savoring is the most used positive psychological strategy combined with nature and that

these interventions are promising in promoting mental/spiritual well-being.

Efcacy of the Best Possible Self Intervention in Social Interaction Scenarios: Comparison Between Original and

Framed Versions

Liu Wenxin

, Zhang Mei

, Wu Liyang

, Wang Jing

, Huo Yongquan

SHAANXI NORMAL UNIVERSITY,

Central University of Finance and Economics,

Maastricht University

Background: The “Best Possible Self” (BPS) intervention includes writing about and imagining the future in an ideal way. The

original BPS intervention was found effective on well-being but lacked evidence on social-related outcomes. However, an

adapted instruction may be necessary for specic scenarios. In this study, we framed the BPS instruction to focus on the best

possible selves under a social interacting context (BPS-S).

Aims: 1) To investigate the effectiveness of the original and the framed BPS on variables related to social scenarios by com-

paring them to a control group; 2) To compare the effectiveness between the original BPS intervention and the framed version.

Method: 71 Chinese young adults were randomly assigned to the BPS-S group (n = 23), BPS group (n = 24), and control group

(n = 24). All participants nished two assessments before and after a brief online intervention.

Result: Participants in the BPS-S condition reported larger decreases in social anxiety, negativity bias, and fear of positive as

well as negative evaluation compared to the BPS and control condition. Participants in the BPS condition reported a decrease

only in negativity bias compared to the control condition.

Conclusion: The BPS-S is more effective on social-related variables compared to both the original version and the control

condition. Future research may consider exploring the effectiveness of framed BPS under specic contexts.

Emotional Intelligence: a positive resource for Human Capital Sustainability Leadership in Healthy Organizations

Di Fabio Annamaria

, Svicher Andrea

Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures and Psychology (Psychology Section), University of Floren-

ce, Florence, Italy.,

THE- Tuscany Health Ecosystem NextGeneration UE - NRRP, Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatu-

res and Psychology (Psychology Section), University of Florence, Florence, Italy.

Background: Healthy Organizations are aimed to foster a virtuous cycle of employee well-being and organizational success.

Within this framework, Human Capital Sustainability Leadership (HCSL) is proposed as a higher-order construct encompass-

ing four leadership styles: ethical, sustainable, mindful, and servant. Healthy Organizations also underscores the relevance

of positive psychological resources and workers’ strength in a preventive approach, including a primary prevention approach.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is recognized as a positive prevention resource due to its trainability, different from personality

traits, which are indicated as stable in the literature.

Aims: The present study aims to investigate the contribution of trait EI dimensions (Emotionality, Sociability, Well-Being, Self-

Control) in mediating the relationship between personality traits and HCSL.

Method: The Big ve questionnaire (BFQ), the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short Form (TEIQue-SF), and the

Human Capital Sustainability Leadership Scale (HCSLS) were administered to 363 Italian Workers. A path analysis with

maximum likelihood estimation was performed.

Results: A partial mediation model showed the best t (TLI=0.983; CFI=0.989; SRMR=0.021; RMSEA=0.069). Well-being

(r2=.24) mediates all the Big Five traits in their relationships with HCSL. Sociability (r2=.34) mediated BFQ Extraversion and

BFQ Conscientiousness in their relationship with HCSL. Self-Control (r2=.23) mediated BFQ Emotional Stability and BFQ

Openness in their relationships with HCSL. Emotionality did not mediate relationships between BFQ and HCSL.

Conclusion: Since EI is increasable through training, results suggest that EI warrant research and intervention in organizations

from a preventive perspective and also from a primary prevention perspective as a favorable resource to promote Human

Capital Sustainability Leadership for enhancing Healthy Organizations.

Emotional Intelligence: The holy grail for leadership? A review and research agenda

Gerhardt Katharina

, Van Woerkom Marianne

, Bauwens Robin

Tilburg University

Leading others is one of the most important responsibilities in organizations. Due to recent challenges, the job of a leader has

become increasingly complex. A different skill-set is required for leaders to not only persevere, but thrive amid today’s challen-

ges. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) plays a key role in this process. This leads us to ask: what do we know about the relationship

between leader EQ and leader outcomes?

While a range of studies have examined the relationship between EQ and leadership, to date there has been little effort to

review them comprehensively and systematically. With empirical research evolving quickly and rising popularity of the concept

among practitioners, there is a need to synthesize past research ndings.

To address this gap in the literature, in this paper we reviewed 101 empirical studies that investigated the relationship between

leader EQ and outcomes at the leader level.

We present our results under the categories leadership styles and behaviors, wellbeing, and performance. The ndings

indicate that leader EQ is positively associated with a range of outcomes benecial to the leader. These outcomes not only

include concepts closely linked to EQ, such as relational leadership styles, but also more task-related outcomes, such as

leader effectiveness.

While our results do not allow for establishing causal relations, they suggest that the benets of EQ might be more far-reaching

than previously assumed. We conclude by outlining key directions to further advance this eld of research.

Empowering educators: unraveling the impact of transformational leadership, professional development, and learn-

ing program management on teacher job satisfaction

Mazzetti Greta

, Mameli Consuelo

, Guglielmi Dina

, Paganin Giulia

University of Bologna

In the contemporary landscape, educational institutions across the EU face substantial challenges. Consequently, school

principals play a crucial role in navigating these changes by adopting effective leadership styles to support teachers, aiding

in their professional development, and enhancing overall job satisfaction. This study delves into the intricate relationship

between transformational leadership and teachers’ job satisfaction, specically examining how these dynamics are inuenced

by attitudes towards professional development. Additionally, we explore the moderating impact of learning program manage-

ment. A total of N=1,091 tenured teachers (86% female; Mage = 49.71, SD = 8.76) participated in our study, responding to a

paper-and-pencil questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was employed to test study hypotheses. Our results not only

conrmed mediating and moderating hypotheses but also underscored the critical role of supporting teachers’ professional

development as a means to enhance satisfaction and cultivate positive attitudes towards their own growth. Furthermore, our

ndings emphasize the necessity of investing in the leadership skills of school principals, directly inuencing the personal and

professional outcomes of teachers.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Enhancing Well-Being of Urban School Students in India: A Comparative Study of Two Interventions in a Natural

Setting

Hira Nainika

, Chhajer Raina

College of Health, Education, and Human Services, Wright State University,

Humanities and Social Sciences Area, Indian Institute of Management Indore

Background: Enhancing the well-being of urban school students is a growing challenge. The online mode of teaching during

and post- pandemic era has increased students’ daily screen time. As they spend more time indoors, they tend to disconnect

from nature even more, adversely impacting their well-being.

Aims: This study aims to design and execute two well-being interventions – a positive psychology intervention (PPI) and a

mindfulness- based intervention (MBI) in natural settings for urban school students in India.

Method: 180 participants (aged 17-20) from a high school were randomly assigned to three groups: PPI, MBI, and a control

group (CTR). Participants self-reported their levels of well-being, gratitude, inclusion of nature in self, sense of connectedness,

resilience, awareness, perceived stress, positive and negative emotions using a survey questionnaire two times – pre and

post-intervention.

Results: Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed across time and groups, and post-hoc analyses

for group differences were carried out through the Bonferroni test. Results indicate that both PPI and MBI interventions, when

executed in natural settings, enhance student well-being, gratitude, inclusion of nature in self, sense of connectedness, resi-

lience, awareness, and positive emotions and decrease levels of perceived stress, and negative emotions.

Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights for school authorities, policymakers, and urban planners to include natural

settings in school premises and offer well-being interventions for students to connect with nature consciously.

Evaluating a Self Determination Theory-Based Parent-Training Aimed at Children’s Digital Education: A Pilot Study

Mameli Consuelo

, Albani Alessandra

, Mazzetti Greta

, Saccà Angela

, Cavallini Francesca

, Grazia Valentina

University of Bologna,

University of Parma

Background: In an age where technology is pervasive, parents may nd it difcult to educate their children on the healthy use

of digital devices.

Aims: In this pilot study, we tested the preliminary efcacy of an online Parent Training (PT) based on Self Determination

Theory (SDT), in fostering parents’ ability to regulate their children’s use of digital devices. We also veried whether the

expected improvements could be ascribed to the specic PT provided, or would possibly be linked to other forms of training.

Method: 33 parents and their 29 children participated in this study. Parents attended one of two PT, based on SDT or Behavior

Therapy (BT), respectively. Participants lled in a self-report questionnaire before (T1) and after (T2) the PT sessions, and at a

six-month follow- up (T3). The survey investigated parental autonomy support, structure, afliation, and behavioral strategies,

and children’s digital device-related problem behaviors.

Results: Parents and children in the SDT-PT group reported an increase in their perceptions of parental structure and aflia-

tion, and a decrease in behavioral issues both at T2 and T3; parents also reported higher values of autonomy support at T2

and T3. Compared with parents attending the BT-PT, those in the SDT-PT group reported higher perceptions of autonomy

support, parental structure, and parental afliation at T3.

Conclusion: This preliminary study offers relevant insights for planning SDT interventions aimed at supporting an optimal

parenting in the specic area of children digital education, and triggers a series of considerations related to the sustainability

of psychological interventions.

Evidence of Satiation of Subjective Well-being on Income at the Aggregate Level in European Countries

Röck Simon

, Walde Janette

Department of Statistics, Faculty of Economics and Statistics, University of Innsbruck

The well-known Easterlin Paradox concerns the relationship between subjective well-being (SWB) and income at the cross-

sectional level at a given point in time. The question of whether there is a saturation point beyond which more income no

longer contributes to increasing SWB puzzles researchers. Despite extensive research, no conclusive evidence supporting

the existence of a saturation point at the cross-sectional level has been identied in the literature. Contrary to the prevailing

understanding, the ndings of this study indicate the presence of saturation points for SWB. Specically, for European count-

ries, both life satisfaction and happiness—two facets of subjective well-being—exhibit no further increase beyond 30,000 €

in equalized disposable household income (EDHI), observed in both 2013 and 2018. It is crucial to note that the evidence of

satiation in SWB is contingent upon the type of income (GDP per capita vs. EDHI) and the dataset employed (EU-SILC vs.

EVS/WVS). This underscores the distinction between policies explicitly focused on enhancing SWB and those emphasizing

economic growth, particularly for countries that have surpassed the saturation point.

Evolution of trauma and social sharing of emotions among Ukrainians refugees

Clergeau Marie

, Leys Christophe

, Paskevska Iulia

ULB

Background: In December 2023, the UNHCR counted nearly six million Ukrainian refugees worldwide (UNHCR, 2023). Many

of them are suffering from trauma because of their experience of war or exile (Bouchard et al., 2022).

Aims: We tested the role of emotions, evolution of social sharing of emotions (SSE) and trauma, among Ukrainian refugees.

We expect the level of SSE to increase over time, in inverse proportion to the level of trauma. We also predict there are specic

emotions related to war trauma.

Method: A longitudinal cohort study took place from December 2022 to December 2023. 200 participants were assessed at

baseline (T1), three months later (T2) and six months later (T3). The study included seven questionnaires : (1) socio-demo-

graphic questionnaire (2) SSE questionnaire (3) PCL-5 (4) emotions questionnaire (5) PDEQ (6) PANAS (7) TEQ.

Results: The results showed a high rate of sharing, with a downward trend in the level of trauma over time. Traumatic distress

scores were, however, high throughout the study period, with 15% dissociated at T1. The results indicated a history of post-

traumatic stress symptoms which were signicantly associated with higher distress scores at baseline. We showed a general

distress dimension for 83% of participants, summarizing a variety of negative states. The emotions linked to war trauma were

mainly fear and sadness. We carried out scientic validation of the questionnaire created on the specic emotions linked to war.

Conclusion: The results of this study could provide denite added value in the social treatment of trauma, among Ukrainian

refugees, and among all trauma victims in general

Examining the heterogeneity of the experience of meaning in life among late adolescents and the role of resilience:

A Latent Prole Analysis

Zambelli Michela

2,1

, Ellena Adriano M.

1,3

, Tagliabue Semira

, Pozzi Maura

1,3

, Marta Elena

1,3

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department of Psychology,

Università di Genova, Department of Educational Sciences (DISFOR),

CERISVICO (Research Centre on Community Development and Organisational Quality of Life), Università Cattolica del

Sacro Cuore

Possessing resilience skills is commonly assumed to be an essential personal resource for navigating challenging and trauma-

tic situations (e.g., Southwick et al., 2014; Ungar, 2011). Moreover, the process of meaning-making (i.e., the process of sear-

ching and nding meaning in life; Steger et al., 2006) is acknowledged as pivotal when young people confront demanding and

stressful circumstances (Brassai et al., 2011; Dulaney et al., 2018; Krok, 2015). However, the theoretical framework positing

an association between resilience and a heightened inclination to engage in a functional meaning-making process remains

scant in empirical exploration. The study presents an application of Latent Prole Analysis to sustain the existence of different

proles of meaning-making within the adolescent population, and to investigate the role of resilience in predicting proles’ be-

longiness. 943 Italian adolescents (52% females) within their last year of high-school were clustered into two adaptive proles,

highly-engaged (59%, high presence, average search) and balanced (33%, average presence and search), and two maladap-

tive proles, frustrated (4% average presence, high search) and disengaged (5%, low presence and search). A multinomial

logistic regression revealed that adolescents with robust resilience skills were more likely to show adaptive proles, and less

likely to fall into the disengaged group, suggesting that individuals with higher resilience are more prone to engage in search

for meaning even when they perceive a lack of presence of meaning. Findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of mea-

ning-making, calling the development of personalized interventions to foster adolescents’ ability to navigate life challenges.

Expanding application of positive education to nonformal education settings through Training nonformal education

Teachers.

Yifal Levi

Dolev Niva

Kinneret College on the Sea of Galilee

Background: Positive education is being increasingly applied in schools, in an attempt to foster students’ and staff’s well-being.

However, much less is known about application of positive education principles and practices in non-formal education (NFE).

Given its importance to children and youth and its exible and social nature, NFE may provide a particularly suitable setting

for the application of positive education. We sought to fulll this gap, by providing and studying a positive education training

to NFE teachers.

Aims: Our primary goal was to examine the perceived relevance and impact of positive education training for NFE teachers -

on their well-being, and their motivation and efforts to integrate positive education into their systems.

Methods: Qualitative data were collected from 18 teachers who voluntarily participated in a nine-session positive education

training, using multiple methods. Main themes and subthemes were identied through inductive thematic analysis.

Results: Findings showed that positive-education training enhanced NFE teachers’ well-being through heightened positivity,

self- awareness, self-care, self-efcacy and a sense of professional meaning. The training motivated teachers to bring positive

education to students and provided them with tools and practices to do so. Nonformal settings were viewed as a highly suitable

context for cultivating positive education for children yet requiring adaptations.

Conclusions: Integrating positive education training into NFE teacher development training can help expanding application of

positive education to NFE settings, contributing to children’s and educators’ wellbeing. Training should focus on both teachers’

well-being and on educational practices that enhance well-being in the children and identifying context-specic practices.

Exploration of Mental health and ourishing in youth through a new measure of Grit

Anjum Afa

, Alqarni Durrya

, Ali Mazahir

University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan

Duckworth et al. (2007) described grit as comprising of two factors; passion and perseverance. Vellerand (2003) proposed two

types of passion i.e. obsessive and harmonious passion; and the theory of character strengths (perseverance is one of them)

differentiates between over, under, and optimal use of character strengths (Niemiec, 2018) and relates optimal use to positive

outcomes. Considering this theoretical premise, we developed a scale of grit that includes both types of passion and three

levels of perseverance. We proposed that mental health and ourishing will differentially associate with different dimensions of

grit. The relationship between grit, achievement goal orientations, goal adjustment and ourishing was explored on a sample

of 194 young adults, while controlling for intelligence, self-efcacy and GPA/percentage. Correlation analysis revealed many

associations between main study variables in the proposed direction. As hypothesized, harmonious passion and optimal use

of perseverance positively predicted ourishing, underuse of perseverance didn’t while overuse and obsessive passion nega-

tively predicted ourishing. Goal adjustment and achievement goal orientation mediated some of the relationships between

grit and ourishing. On another sample of 110 young adults, mental health was assessed using Mental Health Consortium

Scale. The dimensions of grit differentially predicted mental health, as hypothesized. The study has important implications

for research and practice related to young adult students mental health and ourishing in general as well as in the context of

education.

Exploring the Benets of Hiring Individuals with Disabilities in the Workplace

Sanders Rosilyn

SUNY Empire State University

This qualitative study examined the impact of hiring people with intellectual disabilities (ID). The research questions were:

What denes a disability? What accommodations are needed to ensure the success of a person with a disability? As a

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

leader, what benets do people with intellectual disabilities bring to the organization? What are the benets of hiring people

with intellectual disabilities in retail organizations? Moreover, how might people with intellectual disabilities contribute to the

organizational culture of retail organizations? A narrative strength approach was used as a theoretical framework to guide the

discussion and uncover the benets of hiring individuals with intellectual disabilities in various retail organizations. Using 15

qualitative interviews, the following themes emerged: diversity and inclusion, accommodations, organizational culture, motiva-

tion, and customer service. These ndings put to rest some negative stereotypes and perceptions of persons with ID as being

unemployable or unable to perform tasks when employed, showing instead that persons with ID can work efciently when

given necessary work accommodations and support in an enabling organizational culture.

Exploring the Interplay Between Personality Dynamics and Well-Being: A Study of Extraversion and Emotional

Valence

Zager Kocjan Gaja

, Socan Gregor

, Avsec Andreja

University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Arts

The recent emergence of continuous-time dynamic modeling represents a signicant advance in the way time is concep-

tualized in research by treating it as a continuous variable. This approach allows for a detailed examination of the evolving

cross-lagged relationships between changes in momentary expressions of personality—referred to as personality states—and

well-being over increasing time intervals, conditional on all other modeled effects. Using a one-week experience sampling

method (ESM) via a mobile app, we collected 4,694 self-reports of momentary emotional valence, state extraversion, and trait

extraversion from 185 emerging adults. Results indicated that increases in emotional valence predicted subsequent increases

in state extraversion, with the effect being stronger for those higher in trait extraversion. On the other hand, increases in state

extraversion predicted subsequent decreases in emotional valence, regardless of individuals’ levels of trait extraversion. This

unexpected nding may be due to the potential for extraverted behaviors to lead to overstimulation or fatigue, particularly in

demanding social contexts, culminating in a transient decrease in positive valence. These dynamics underscore the nuanced

relationship between personality expressions and affective states and invite further exploration of individual coping mecha-

nisms and regulatory strategies in the face of uctuating emotional experiences.

Exploring the Wellbeing of Chinese Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Pan Yue

, Kern Peggy

, Jarden Aaron

University of Melbourne

Background: Population ageing is a global phenomenon. Researchers and policymakers have increasingly focused on inves-

tigating and supporting wellbeing in older adulthood in different populations. The current project focuses on Chinese older

adults. Researchers have inconsistently conceptualised and investigated the wellbeing of Chinese older adults resulting in

mixed ndings. There has not been a broad review of existing literature on this topic.

Aims: We aim to conduct a mixed-methods systematic review to explore what is known in the current literature about how

Chinese older adults conceptualise, experience, and promote wellbeing.

Method: We systematically searched six databases: ProQuest, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses Global, PsycINFO, Web

of Science, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. We conducted screening, data extraction and synthesis. Quantitative, qualitative, and

mixed-methods studies were included.

Results: Our review identied over 800 studies. Findings supported the multidimensionality of wellbeing. Key themes aligned

with common dimensions of wellbeing (e.g., physical, psychological, social, and spiritual). In addition, several themes were

identied specic to Chinese older adults, such as cultural value of lial piety, differences between rural and urban contexts

(Hukou system), intergenerational support and relationships, and nancial security.

Conclusion: This review presents a consolidated view of current knowledge on Chinese older adults’ wellbeing, which raise

interesting implications for future research and practice. Findings potentially inform the development and implementation of

wellbeing programs that are population-specic and contextually-sensitive.

Factors associated with experiencing ow in fullling and enjoyable situations in Japanese undergraduates

Kawabata Masato

1,2

, Asakawa Kiyoshi

Rikkyo University,

The University of Queensland,

Hosei University

The Japanese frequently report ‘Jujitsu-kan’ (a Japanese word for a fullling and rewarding feeling) when they talk about

their psychological well-being or satisfaction with their lives. Jujitsu-kan is associated with eudaimonic feeling (Kawabata &

Asakawa, 2021), and Jujitsu-kan is positively related to ow experience (Asakawa, 2004). To promote the positive feeling and

experience, the present study aimed to investigate what factors are associated with ow experience in fullling and enjoyable

activities. A sample of 240 Japanese undergraduates (53.8% women; Mage = 20.0, SD = 1.6) participated in this study. Parti-

cipants were asked to identify a situation from their daily life in which they most frequently feel Jujitsu-kan and another in which

they feel enjoyment most often. Subsequently, participants completed a questionnaire regarding each situation (e.g., levels of

perceived difculty, effort, importance, ability, condence, and ow experience). Around half of participants (n = 129, 53.8%)

considered the two constructs as identical (Group 1), whereas the other half (n = 111, 46.2%) viewed them as different (Group

2). A multiple regression analysis was conducted separately for Group 1 and Group 2 in each situation. For Group 1, perceived

ability and importance of the activity were signicant predictors of experiencing ow in the enjoyable situation, whereas con-

dence was the sole signicant predictor in the Jujitsu-kan situation. For Group 2, condence was the sole signicant predictor

in both situations. These results revealed that perceived condence is critical for the Japanese undergraduates to experience

ow in the situation where they feel Jujitsu-kan.

Factors associated with happiness and wellbeing in Austrian and German adolescents

Dale Rachel

, O’Rourke Teresa

, Haider Katja

, Cocca Armando

, Pieh Christoph

Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems,

Department of Human Movement Studies, University of Ostrava, Czechia

Background: Data show adolescent mental health has declined in recent years and young people now typically show worse

mental health than other age groups. This is likely due to increased uncertainty and loss of opportunities (e.g. due to the pan-

demic and climate change).

Aims: We aimed to analyse which factors can promote mental wellbeing and happiness in this age group.

Methods: Adolescents of 14-19 years were recruited in Germany and Austria and completed standardised questionnaires to

measure mental wellbeing (WHO5, Cantrill ladder). Furthermore smartphone use and physical activity were objectively mea-

sured via an app and a Fitbit tracker respectively for a period of two weeks. Linear regression models were run to analyse

which factors inuence wellbeing and happiness.

Results: Mean wellbeing was 42.6 (from 100) and mean happiness was 6.3/10. As amount of sport, self-reported satisfaction

with smartphone use, sleep quality and age increased, so did wellbeing (all p<0.05). There was no effect of self-reported social

media use, gender, smartphone addiction or daily amount of smartphone use. Happiness was higher in those with better sleep

quality and higher self-reported satisfaction with smartphone use (all p<0.01).

Conclusion: Sleep and satisfaction with one’s own smartphone use are important for both happiness and wellbeing in teen-

agers. Wellbeing was additionally higher in those doing more sport and older adolescents. This data will be used in interven-

tions to promote mental health and wellbeing in adolescents.

Factors inuencing the effectiveness of Positive Psychology Interventions: A systematic Review

Burke Jolanta

, Rickard Nikki

, Giraldez-Hayes Andrea

RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences,

The University of Melbourne,

University of East London

Background: Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs) have been developed and empirically tested to improve wellbeing.

However, over the last decade, empirical research indicated they had a limited impact on wellbeing, did not pass the test of

time and could have adverse outcomes.

Aims: To systematically review the empirical research exploring factors that inuence the effectiveness of Positive Psychology

Interventions.

Method: From the initial 256 papers, 48 papers were selected for this narrative review. Using Rayyan software, two reviewers

selected the nal papers.

Results: Four types of factors have emerged. Firstly, contextual factors, such as culture or afliation. Secondly, PPI design

factors include the nature of practice or person-t activity. Thirdly, subjective factors, such as participants’ effort-making or their

preferences. Fourthly, individual factors, such as participants’ personality or demographics.

Conclusion: The ndings from this review will inform the methods of future PPI practice. They will be discussed in the context

of existing models and recommend changes that need to be considered in applying PPIs.

This systematic review was funded by Enterprise Ireland

Finland – Eudaimonia of the North? Unravelling the Blueprint for a Good Society Through Societal, Cultural, and

Psychological Lense

Pentikäinen Viivi

Helsinki university

This abstract explores societal, cultural, and psychological perspectives to understand the blueprint of a Good Society (GS),

with a particular focus on Finland, ranked as the “Happiest Nation” for the 6th time by the Gallup World Poll.

The discussion is founded on understanding Nordic exceptionalism as dened by Martela et al. (2020) and in the advance-

ments of the third wave of positive psychology (PP), proposing a shift towards a more complex, holistic, and inclusive ap-

proach with a broader spectrum of societal, cultural, and environmental perspectives addressed.

The presentation focuses on the concept of societal well-being and argues for expanding the scope of PP to encompass the

broader collective well-being of societies and an eco-social policy perspective proposed by Helne & Hirvilammi (2014). It emp-

hasizes the role of virtues in creating a sustainable global future for the planet.

The methodology combines theoretical analysis with empirical research. A key innovation introduced is the ‘Good Society

Scale,’ developed by the author to measure societal virtues. This scale is complemented by a comprehensive analysis of

Finland’s societal well-being. The Finnish case exemplies progress towards a harmonious, equitable society characterised

by high life satisfaction, well- functioning liberal democracy and stable institutions.

The presentation posits that the key to understanding societal well-being lies in understanding and fostering societal virtues.

Including a discussion on societal wellbeing is vital for tackling global challenges and promoting a more inclusive, just, and

sustainable life for everyone on the planet. A new Positive Social Science perspective could tackle these issues.

Flourishing in old age – opportunities for sustainable age and ageing

Bahr Christiane

Private Practice

People in the 60-plus age group are more heterogeneous than those in younger age groups. Many over-60s still have a wide

range of resources and numerous potentials that they can consciously use for successful and positive ageing and thus a

promising stage of life. The associated challenges and opportunities range from practicing mindfulness and learning to per-

ceive positive changes, challenges and strengths as well as problematic situations in ageing - and how to deal with them - to

opportunities to get involved in regional or international initiatives in which older people can contribute their lifelong experience

and expertise. They blossom again and again with the help of the background they have created, their valuable and sought-

after life experience, and their developed competence and vitality. And this is signicant individually, socially and globally. The

lifelong skills developed by older people are maintained and trained in a meaningful way by being specically challenged,

which consequently benets both the older person in question and the people in the community who receive help, support and

advice. The associated ndings and initiatives for the common good are urgently needed both regionally and internationally.

In this context, concrete considerations in the sense of helpful impulses and practical possibilities are briey presented as

examples based on “ Sustainable Age and Ageing – An Interdisciplinary Theoretical Model of Successful Age and Ageing”

(Bahr, 2014). This positive approach to ageing therefore benets the individual as well as society and global coexistence in

line with the United Nations SDGs.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Flow in Nature? Exploring environments for optimal experiences

Isham Amy

Swansea University

Background: Given ow’s benecial consequences, many studies have examined how ow experiences can be supported.

However, much of this work focuses on individual difference factors or specic contexts such as work or school. There has not

been a systematic examination of how features of the physical environment impact, and are shaped by, ow.

Aims: This research starts to examine the nature of the relationship between ow and physical environments. It seeks to de-

termine whether there are specic environments or environmental features that commonly support ow.

Method: Three studies were conducted to achieve the project Aims: Firstly, a systematic scoping review mapped the existing

knowledge of ow and physical environments. Secondly, an international survey presented participants with descriptions of

ow and asked to openly report the environments in which they had similar experiences. Thirdly, art workshops gave partici-

pants the opportunity to create an artwork displaying one of their ow environments.

Findings: A variety of environmental features have been linked to ow experiences, although experimental evidence is lacking.

Interestingly, those environments that receive the most attention in academic literature (e.g., nature) are not always those most

frequently reported by survey participants. People’s relationship with an environment (e.g., familiarity, place attachment) may

be just as important for supporting ow as the objective environmental features.

Conclusions: This work highlights the emerging themes and research gaps for understanding interrelations between ow and

physical environments, expanding a body of work that will ultimately support the development of guidelines for designing en-

vironments for optimal experiences.

Flow in Recreational Doubles Pickleball: A Meaningful Source of Enjoyment for Adults over 50

Worthington Glynis

, Gute Gary

, Jackson Sue

University of Northern Iowa,

Body and Mind Flow

Background: Flow research focusing on recreational athletes has increased signicantly since Csikszentmihalyi’s (1975) in-

vestigation into ow among rock climbers. Pickleball, described as a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is one

of the world’s fastest-growing recreational sports; however, no research has examined ow among recreational pickleball

players.

Aims: The study compared recreational doubles pickleball players’ experience on the nine dimensions of ow to that of com-

parison groups reported in Jackson, et al. (2010).

Method: A sample of recreational doubles pickleball players age 50 and over (N=231; 52% female) completed the Long Dis-

positional Flow Scale-Physical (DFS-2) (Jackson et al., 2010), a self-report measure of the dimensions of ow relative to an

activity in general, rather than of any specic moment or event.

Results: Mean scores on the nine dimensions were compared to scores in ve samples reported by Jackson et al. (2010):

physical activity, sport, exercise, yoga, and performing arts. Composite mean scores (mean average for the 9 dimensions)

were higher for the pickleball sample than the composite scores for all of the ve comparison samples (p<.001). Pickleball

scores were particularly strong for challenge/skill balance, unambiguous feedback, and concentration. Of the ve samples,

yoga compared most favorably to pickleball.

Conclusion: Pickleball was played by an estimated 4.8 million people in 2021, a 40% increase since 2019 (Sports & Fitness

Industry, 2022). A meaningful source of enjoyment for older adults, doubles recreational pickleball provides ow researchers a

vibrant arena for dening “high ow” activities and the neurophysical, social, and emotional benets for adults.

Friendship Quality and Life Satisfaction: A Three-Wave Longitudinal Study

Diaconu-Gherasim Loredana

, Nicuta Gabriela

Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi,

Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi

Background: Previous literature indicates that positive friendship quality is positively related to children’s life satisfaction,

however, limited studies longitudinally explored this relation.

Aims: This study aimed to examine the relations between children’s friendship quality and their life satisfaction using a longitu-

dinal design. We expected that positive friendship quality would prospectively predict higher levels of life satisfaction, whereas

positive friendship quality would lead to lower levels of life satisfaction. Moreover, we explored whether children’s life satisfac-

tion might impact the way they perceive their friendships over time.

Method: A sample of 431 middle-school students (50.3% boys; Mage = 11.59) completed scales assessing friendship qualities

and life satisfaction on three occasions, spaced six months apart (i.e., in the rst and second semester of the 5th grade and

in the rst semester of the 6th grade).

Results: Cross-lagged panel analyses revealed that children’s life satisfaction at T1 and T2 predicted increased levels of

positive friendship and low levels of negative friendship quality at T2 and T3, respectively. Positive friendship, but not negative

friendship quality, at T2 predicted greater life satisfaction at T3.

Conclusion: These ndings suggest that high quality friendships might have a benecial impact on life satisfaction, but that this

role becomes more pronounced as children grow older. Our study advances previous literature by showing that children’s life

satisfaction can also have a positive effect on their friendships, potentially because children who are satised with their lives

are more approachable and attractive as friends.

Friendships of Mutual Accountability: The foundational role of relationships in character development within higher

education

Park Rebecca

, Fesperman Susan

Wake Forest University

The Program for Leadership and Character at Wake Forest University provides programming for undergraduate students to

develop their character and leadership. Throughout the programming, we implement the seven strategies of virtue develop-

ment: (1) habituation through practice, (2) reection on personal experience, (3) engagement with virtuous exemplars, (4)

dialogue that increases virtue literacy, (5) awareness of situational variables, (6) moral reminders, and (7) friendships of mutual

accountability (Lamb et al., 2021).

Our scholarship program engages a cohort of 10 undergraduates across their four years of study in a rigorous character

development curriculum through mentoring, coursework, community engagement, and cohort experiences exploring four re-

spective themes: Identity and Community, Leadership and Service, Vocation and Values, Character and Competence.

The results of qualitative analysis from focus groups and anonymous surveys from our scholars will be presented. Twenty

participants provided data at either their end of program assessment or the mid-program assessment. Data was analyzed

using thematic analysis.

Data provided evidence for the impact of all seven strategies. The most prominent theme was the role of relationships. Firstly,

the relationships with their peers which created a sense of community; and secondly, the relationships with the leadership

team which were fundamental to their development. Specic ways in which these relationships supported character develop-

ment will be presented.

The results from our scholarship program emphasize the importance of two of the seven strategies of virtue development:

“Friendships of mutual accountability” and “Engagement with virtuous exemplars”, demonstrating how character development

takes place in community, rather than isolation.

From Commitment to Relationship Flourishing: A Brief Journey through Generativity in Couple Relationships

Costa-Ramalho Susana

, Ribeiro Maria Teresa

Católica Research Centre for Psychological, Family and Social Wellbeing (CRC-W), Universidade Católica Portuguesa,

Lisbon,

Centro de Investigação em Ciência Psicológica (CICPSI), Faculdade de Psicologia da Universidade de Lisboa

Background: Committed romantic relationships are among the most important relationships in adults’ lives, with very signi-

cant implications for well-being. Above marital status, relationship quality is still a better predictor of health and happiness.

Consequently, research has sought to deepen understanding regarding factors which can facilitate human ourishing at both

individual and couple levels. Beyond more studied dimensions as intimacy and commitment, the last decade has highlight-

ed the relevance of generativity in marital functioning, reecting the couple’s ability to decentre and seek the care of others

(family, friends, community). When considering relationship ourishing, it expands the domain of eudaimonic well-being to

include its relational manifestations.

Aims: Analyze whether commitment can increase couple relationship ourishing by fostering a more generative relationship.

Method: This quantitative and cross-sectional study collected data using self-report questionnaires (Relationship Flourishing,

Personal Commitment and Couple Generativity Scales) among a convenience sample of 406 married/cohabiting adults aged

22-77.

Results: Commitment was found to be a predictor of relational ourishing (β=.65, p< .001); it continued to be a predictor, alt-

hough weaker, when generativity was included as a mediator (β=.45, p<.001). Around 30 per cent of the effect of commitment

on relationship ourishing is mediated by generativity.

Conclusion: This study can contribute to what Fincham and Beach have called positive relationship science. They highlighted

important relationship processes such as commitment, trust, and -we add- generativity, that may “combine to give partners in

a ourishing relationship a sense of meaning and purpose in life”. These processes should thus promote relationships that are

not just satisfying but ourishing.

From Gratitude to Sustainability: Unpacking Product Value for Conscious Consumption

Jäger Marlene

, Shemunkasho Afrem

, Kousi Soa

Nova School of Business & Economics

Extant positive psychology research has established the benecial impact of gratitude on health and wellbeing. However, its

effect on sustainable behavior remains understudied. Our work investigates the inuence of gratitude on sustainable behavior

intentions for utilitarian and hedonic products, as well as the mediating role of increased perceived value in terms of functional,

emotional, and social dimensions. We hypothesize that increasing the gratitude felt towards a possession, using a simple

intervention, increases sustainable behavior intentions, in terms of prolonging its use and taking better care of the item, via the

increased perceptions of functional, emotional and social value of the product.

The results of two experimental studies (N = 225) which use the same product with a hedonic and a utilitarian frame, indicate

that gratitude increases consumers’ sustainability intentions, due to the increased perceived functional value of the product.

Specically, increasing the gratitude felt towards a utilitarian-framed item increases intentions to prolong its use. For a hedo-

nic-framed item, it increases intentions for better care.

The results shed light on the relationship between gratitude and sustainable behavior and its mediating factors. Understanding

the interplay between gratitude, sustainable behaviors, and their mediating factors offers valuable insights for businesses,

scholars, and policymakers aiming to promote more sustainable consumption patterns that contribute to societal well-being

and ourishing. These insights are helpful for designing positive psychology-based interventions and communications to en-

courage environmentally conscious consumer actions.

From ‘ego‘ to ’Self’: a randomized controlled intervention study on the cultivation of Confucian ideal personality

traits (Junzi personality) based on traditional Chinese culture

Li Shuzhen

, Wang Xiaoyuan

, Zhou Yajie

Fudan University

Objective: Traditional Chinese culture emphasizes the cultivation of human virtues, advocating for the development of the

‘Junzi’ personality as a foundational life principle. This concept resembles key aspects of positive psychology, focusing on

enhancing positive experiences, fostering virtues, and building positive social environments. To promote the integration of

traditional Chinese cultural elements with modern positive psychology, this study aims to develop a systematic intervention

to effectively cultivate the ‘Junzi’ personality, facilitating the transition from ‘Ego’ to ‘Self’ among Chinese university students.

Method: A 28-day intervention was conducted, incorporating dual components: ‘knowledge’ (daily recitation of classical wisdom

related to ‘Junzi’) and ‘action’ (completion of daily tasks promoting virtue). 229 university students (Mage = 18.26, SD = 1.19;

56.8% female) participated, being randomly assigned to the intervention or a waitlist control group. Self-rated questionnaires

of ‘Junzi’ personality, Peace of Mind Scale, MHC-SF, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 were used.

Results: The experimental group exhibited signicant increases in ‘Junzi’ personality, peace of mind, and emotional, psycho-

logical, and social well-being, controlled for age and gender, compared to the control group. Anxiety levels remained stable

in the intervention group but increased in the control group. No signicant changes were observed in depression. Mediation

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

analysis indicated that improvements in well-being and anxiety were partially mediated by the post-test score (T1) of ‘Junzi’

personality.

Conclusion: “These ndings demonstrate the signicance of combining traditional Chinese culture and modern positive psy-

chology for virtue development and well-being enhancement in Chinese university students during their transition period.

Confucian ideal personality traits; Positive Psychology Intervention; Cross-Cultural Well-being

Gratitude prospectively predicts workplace well-being through the mediation of need satisfaction: Evidence from

three longitudinal studies

Unanue Wenceslao

, Reyes Valentina

Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Business School,

Universidad Diego Portales, School of Bussiness

The study of the link between gratitude and well-being at work is very limited: Research is mostly cross-sectional and the

mediators are underexplored. Aiming to extend previous studies, rst, I theorized that gratitude predicts job well-being longi-

tudinally. Additionally, drawing on Self-determination theory (SDT), I theorize that the satisfaction of the needs for autonomy,

competence and relatedness (BPNS) mediates the mentioned link. Thus, I conducted three three-wave longitudinal studies

with one (N = 725), three (N = 1841), and six (N = 2045) months between each wave respectively. Consistently, all studies

supported the hypotheses: Gratitude predicts longitudinally well-being at work through the mediation of BPNS. More speci-

cally, Gratitude at T1 prospectively predicts higher BPNS at T2, which in turn prospectively predicts higher engagement and

job satisfaction, as well as lower burnout, job insecurity and turnover intentions at T3. Key implications for gratitude and SDT

research are discussed.

Hindering or Helping? User Preferences for Features of Recorded Mindfulness Practice

Stanko-Kaczmarek Maja

Adam Mickiewicz University

Background: Despite its numerous benets, practicing mindfulness involves certain challenges.

Aims: The aim of the study was investigation of the impact of various characteristics of recorded mindfulness practice inst-

ructions on recipients’ evaluations, focusing on elements that may evoke negative reactions and hinder mindfulness practice.

Method: A total of 138 participants evaluated 24 recordings of mindfulness practice excerpts. The recordings differed in terms

of the speaker’s gender, the form and pace of the message, the presence of whispering, and the number of artifacts. Re-

spondents rated each recording using a scale and provided open-ended responses about their subjective perception of the

recordings. The study employed hierarchical multilevel modeling to analyze the collected data.

Results: The results indicated that recipient gender did not inuence preferences for male or female-voiced recordings.

However, properties such as form, pace, whispering, and artifacts did affect evaluations. Least favored instruction elements

included plural pronouns, slow pacing, primarily whispered speech, and a high number of artifacts. Some differences in eva-

luations were observed between female and male recording conditions. Additionally, qualitative data revealed participants’

subjective reactions to recordings with varying characteristics, and the study identied the most favorable characteristics of

the recordings.

Conclusions: The study results identied which qualities of recorded mindfulness instructions are least preferred and may

present obstacles to initiating or continuing the practice. Therefore, this study may help create more optimal instructions and

improve the design of apps and platforms offering mindfulness practice recordings, enhancing the quality and accessibility of

practice for a broader audience.

Hope for the best or prepare for the worst? Calm perseverance, not vigilant monitoring, contributes to adolescent

life satisfaction

Weiss Laura A..

1,2

, De Ridder Denise T..

, Gillebaart Marleen

, Benjamins Jeroen S..

, Ybema Jan Fekke

Utrecht University,

North-West University, Vanderbijlpark

Background: Adolescence is a developmental phase of transition, self-discovery and emerging independence. During this

time, pursuing and making progress toward one’s personal goals is important for life satisfaction. Employment of self-regula-

tory strategies through which individuals achieve their goals may be benecial for well-being through their positive effect on

goal progress. We compared the proactive self-regulatory strategy of vigilant monitoring (‘prepare for the worst’ by planning,

monitoring opportunities to realize goals and shield them from obstacles) with the more laid-back strategy of calm perseveran-

ce (‘hope for the best’ and steadily working towards goals at a slower pace). These are newly developed categories.

Aims: We tested which strategy would promote life satisfaction in adolescence more and whether employing the strategies

would hinge on perceptions of goal importance and attainability.

Method: A diverse sample of Dutch adolescents (aged 16 years at the start of the study) participated in the longitudinal Ten

Years Up cohort. Data was collected every three months via an app. We used multilevel regression analysis to analyze data

from 882 participants from the rst seven waves of data collection (2394 observations), collected within two years.

Results: We found support that calm perseverance was the sole signicant predictor of life satisfaction regardless of goal

perceptions. It

was supported by perceiving one’s goals as attainable. Vigilant monitoring only contributed indirectly to life satisfaction through

its positive effects on calm perseverance.

Conclusion: Our ndings suggest that using a calm perseverance strategy to work towards goals is an important contributor

to adolescent life satisfaction.

How Cross-Domain Social Support Leads to Work-Life Balance: A Longitudinal Boundary Theory Perspective

Richards Justine Blaise

, Provost Savard Yanick

, Bonnardel Dana

Université du Québec à Montréal

Background: Social support is a crucial element for an individual’s psychological well-being and it can be found in different life

domains (e.g., work, family). Receiving social support from either work, through colleagues or supervisors, or family members

can enhance work-life balance (Jolly et al., 2021; Vaziri et al., 2022), but the mechanisms allowing this effect are not yet known.

Aims: Drawing from boundary theory (Ashforth et al., 2000), we posit that boundary control—the psychological interpretation

of perceived control over the boundaries between one’s work and personal life (Kossek et al., 2012)—will mediate the relation-

ships between cross-domain social support from supervisors, colleagues, and family members and work-life balance.

Method: A total of 333 Canadian workers living with at least one family member completed a self-reported electronic question-

naire on three occasions, two months apart each.

Results: Structural equation modeling analyses showed that boundary control at T2 signicantly mediated the relationship

between social support from supervisors (indirect effect = .059, 95% CI [.000, .135]) and from family members (indirect effect

= .106, 95% CI [.049, .183]) at T1 and work-life balance at T3, while social support from colleagues at T1 only presented a

direct relationship with work- life balance at T3 (β = .192, 95% CI [.013, .364]).

Conclusion: Supervisors and family members thus seem to be more instrumental than colleagues in how workers manage the

boundaries between their work and personal lives. Further implications for the positive work-family literature will be discussed.

Social support, Work-family balance, Boundary control

How do sports people conceptualise mental toughness?

Dorling Jennifer

Bond University

Mental toughness (MT) has yet to be systematically compared among elite athletes. Key distinctions include individual resi-

lience and team dynamics. The research included N=28 athletes from sports such as rugby (team sport) and mixed martial

arts (MMA) (individual sport). By examining these differences, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding

of MT across different sports contexts. Using the Repertory Grid Technique and Multidimensional Scaling (MDS), personal

constructs of MT were examined. Analysis revealed distinct themes such as perseverance, resilience, determination, com-

posure, and integrity in individual athletes, contrasting with commitment, leadership qualities, and vulnerability in team sports

participants. Athletes also described strategies for developing and maintaining MT, crucial for performance in high-pressure

environments. The study highlights MT’s multidimensional nature and suggests expanding existing models to include interper-

sonal and emotional dimensions. Results enable the development of a richer instrument for measuring MT, aiming to enhance

diagnostic and interventional strategies.

How do we intervene in young people’s mental health?: Lessons from 7 years of intervention delivery

Platt Ian A.

, Carson Jerome

, Hochard Kevin D.

, Tytherleigh Michelle

, Kannangara Chathurika

, Mcfaul Claudine

, North

Catherine

, Ebenezer-Bamigbayan Sonia

MedEquip4Kids,

University of Bolton,

University of Chester,

The Open University

Background: A brief, multi-component PPI, the Hummingbird Project, delivered by current university students in Psychology,

which educates secondary school students in a variety of Positive Psychology concepts, has been shown to improve in mental

health in young people. Recent developments have led to a range of new interventions and models in this area.

Aims: This presentation aims to show some of the advances in intervention in young people’s mental health that have been

made in recent years.

Method: The Hummingbird Project has educated secondary school students (n = 3,372) on a range of concepts from Positive

Psychology, leading to advances in school-based mental health intervention such as HAPI Schools and the P3p model. The

HAPI Schools tool can be used by educators to evaluate the usefulness of mental health interventions offered by outside

agencies. The P3p model demonstrates factors that should be considered when intervening in young people’s mental health.

Results: The Hummingbird Project has led to improvements in young people’s; well-being (World Health Organization Well-

Being Index (WHO- 5)), hope (Children’s Hope Scale (CHS)), and symptoms of mental distress (Young Person’s Clinical

Outcomes in Routine Evaluation (YP-CORE)). HAPI Schools and the P3p model elucidate the processes via which these

improvements might be explained.

Conclusion: These results show that a brief, multicomponent, PPI, delivered by non-specialist staff, can improve mental health

outcomes in secondary school settings. Attendees of this presentation should leave with a clearer understanding of how they

can implement similar improvements in young people.

How does different travel modes affect subjective wellbeing?

Roos John Magnus

1,2

, Roos John Magnus

3,4

Stockholm School of Economics, Center for Wellbeing, Welfare and Happiness,

University of Borås,

University of Skövde,

University of Gothenburg

Background: The present study analyses travel satisfaction among people living in two Swedish cities, Gothenburg and Malmö

(N = 501). Studying travel satisfaction is important in order to improve subjective well-being and to achieve more sustainable

travel behaviors.

Aims: The aim is to compare travel satisfaction among people that primarily are using car, public transportation, and cycle,

respectively. Regarding car use, the study aims also to distinguish travel satisfaction among car owners and car sharers.

Method: Travel satisfaction was measured through the satisfaction with travel scale (STS), which include three semantic dif-

ferential scales. (1) Cognitive evaluation, with end-points “work very poorly, very low standard, worst imaginable” and “work

very well, very high standard, best imaginable”. (2) Positive activation-negative deactivation, with the end-points “very bored/

fed-up/tired” and “very enthusiastic/engaged/alert”. (3) Positive deactivation – negative activation, with the end-points “very

stressed/worried/hurried” and “very calm/condent/relaxed”.

Results: The analyses resulted in two key-ndings. Firstly, people using public transportation have a lower cognitive evaluation

of their

everyday travels, compared to car users. Secondly, cyclers are more positive activated than people using public transpor-

tations. Conclusion: If people in general change from public transportation toward cycling, they will feel more enthusiastic,

engaged and alert, and less bored, fed-up, and tired. If people change from public transportation to car use they will evaluate

their travel better. However, this positive evaluation of car use seems to be related to car owning, not car sharing.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

How Does Local Nature Promote Subjective Wellbeing? The roles of Physical Activity and Place-belongingness as

Mediators

Grau-Ruiz Raul

Volda University College

Background: Relationships between nature and subjective wellbeing (SWB) are complex, and knowledge gaps exist. Although

mediators like physical activity (PA) are well-known, other pathways characterised by building capacities with potential media-

tors like place-belongingness (PB) remain understudied.

Aims: We aimed to test three hypotheses. First, PA and PB mediate the SWB benets of living near outdoor spaces (parks

and hiking areas). Second, the PA and PB pathways are intertwined. Third, these pathways differ according to the type of

outdoor space.

Method: We analysed data from 35,021 respondents from two consecutive waves (2020–2021) of nation-wide quality-of-life

surveys in Norway. Path analysis and maximum likelihood were used to estimate the model parameters. Socio-demographic

characteristics were used to control the analyses.

Results: PA and PB mediate the SWB benets of outdoor spaces (p < .001), with PB being a stronger pathway (β = .06 vs.

.01). Modelling a PA-PB correlation (.09, p < .001) improved model t (χ2[5] = 13.05, p = .023, CFI = 1, TLI= .996, RMSEA

(90% CI) = .007 (.002, .012), SRMR = .002). Only the effects of parks were partially mediated by PA and PB, and their total

effect was the largest (β = .09 vs. .03).

Conclusion: PA and PB are intertwined mediators of the SWB benets of living close to nature, with effects varying by outdoor

space type. These ndings advance our understanding of the complex ways in which natural environments promote SWB at

large, with implications for urban planning, public health work, and future research.

How does social support shape relationship between career calling and wellbeing?

Baskurt Ayse Burcin

, Kampman Hanna

University of East London E154LZ London

Background: Career calling has received signicant attention in the last decade, showing an association between calling and

wellbeing. However, there is scarce work that has contextualized these concepts within the individual’s immediate environ-

ment. This paper explored the role of social support in the relationship between career calling and wellbeing.

Methods: This is a correlational study based on a survey from a sample of 96 Turkish immigrant women living in the UK. Re-

gression and mediation analyses were used to examine the associations between career calling, social support and wellbeing.

Results: Results showed that both presence and search dimensions of career calling, and social support from a special

person, family and friends had signicant associations with PERMA wellbeing. Path analysis showed some indirect effects

in this relationship, such that support from family and friends predicted higher levels of wellbeing via the mediational role of

search for a calling for immigrant women.

Discussions: Findings add insight to indirect ways of the relations between career calling, support and wellbeing showing the

importance of social support for immigrant women.

Conclusions: The implications of the results underlined considering career calling and wellbeing within the wider social context

of the individuals. Especially in a time when uncertainties and anxieties are on the rise, career calling can help people live a

better life, and a contextual positive psychology perspective can contribute to a better understanding of how different groups

of people experience career calling.

How Parents Mediate Cultural Inuences on Flow in Schools

Shernoff David J..

, Bempechat Janine

, Li Jin

Rutgers University,

Boston University,

Brown University

Background: The phenomenon of ow—the full involvement enjoyable activities—has been recognized and described in

similar phenomenological terms in every culture where it has been studied – suggesting a survival advantage of ow rooted

in the theory of psychological selection (e.g., Delle Fave et al., 2011). On the other hand, research has also shown that the

pathways to experiencing it are susceptible to cultural inuences (e.g., Csikszentmihalyi & Asakawa, 2016).

Aims: In this study, we present original interview studies of Chinese and European American school children and their parents

nding distinctive differences in their perceptions and dispositions in pathways to enjoyment in school learning, serving to

mediate the tendency for children in Eastern cultures to experience ow more frequently in schoolwork than those from

Western cultures (Delle Fave et al., 2011). Method: The primary method of the interview studies is an in-depth discourse ana-

lysis based on qualitative coding demonstrating acceptable reliability.

Results: European American parents frequently believed that learning becomes enjoyable based on children’s unique inter-

ests in external activities, best supported through play, sports, and hobbies (contexts in which these children most frequently

experience ow). In contrast, Chinese parents tended to believe that persistence in school study was a virtue helping children

to overcome the inherent challenges, a process that makes learning enjoyable.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated how the prevailing ethnotheory of parents from China cultivates the tendency for their

children to psychologically select and focus on academic activities compared to their Western counterparts, experiencing ow

more frequently in schoolwork.

How to cultivate the true self to promote the well-being and mental health of adolescents and students in higher ed-

ucation? Results of a scoping review

Paré-Beauchemin Rémi

1,2

, Lane Julie

1,2

, Lauzier-Jobin François

1,2

University of Sherbrooke,

Observatory on Student Mental Health in Higher Education

Background: Approximately 14% of adolescents and emerging adults worldwide live with a mental health disorder. For higher

education students, these rates reach 35%. Two essential developmental tasks are common to these periods of life: identity

formation and nding meaning. Increasing attention is directed at examining the role of identity formation in the development

of mental health disorders and many studies support the protecting role of having a positive identity and meaning in life. The

true self represents a promising avenue to guide youth to discover who they really are and nd meaning. Although many

report its benets, knowledge is lacking about what may help to cultivate the true self. Aims: This scoping review aimed to

identify factors that may help to cultivate the true self in adolescents, emerging adults and higher education students. Method:

Following Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) methodology, 829 articles published between 2001 and 2022 were identied. Once

screened, 55 articles remained. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes of factors that may help to cultivate

the true self. Results: This study suggests the true self may be cultivated with introspection, the fulllment of one’s needs,

mindfulness, artistic creativity, life experiences and travels, resilience, emotionally secure relationships, models of authentici-

ty, an academic culture of authenticity, and the internet. Conclusion: Promising factors and concrete actions exist to cultivate

the true self in youth to prevent mental health disorders and promote their well-being. Future studies are needed to develop

interventions and rigorously test them.

How to Use Well-Being Dialogue Card

Madoka Maeno

, Mayumi Hamada

, Takashi Maeno

Graduate School of System Design Management, Keio University, Hiyoshi, Kohokuku, Yokohama, Japan

This presentation aims to describe Well-Being Dialogue Cards (WBDC) and demonstrate some effective ways of using WBDC.

WBDC were developed to enhance happiness and well-being based on the Four Factors of Happiness, which was derived

from an analysis of 1,500 Japanese participants’ survey: factor 1 “DO WHAT YOU LOVE!” (self-realization and growth),

factor 2 “BE GRATEFUL FOR EVERYTHING!” (connection and gratitude), factor 3 “YOU CAN DO IT!” (positive and opti-

mistic), factor 4 “BE YOURSELF!” (independence and individuality). There are 52 cards in total, 13 cards in each category.

A happiness-enhancing question is written on each card. Our research ndings suggest that WBDC can enhance subjective

happiness, improve resilience and self-esteem, deepen self-awareness, and understand others through dialogue. In the rst

half of the workshop, the co-presenters Mr. Maeno and Ms. Hamada, and I will describe the Four Factors of Happiness, the

results of some research on the effectiveness of WBDC, and how to utilize WBDC in various situations such as schools and

workplaces. In the second half, participants will have an opportunity to use WBDC to ask and answer questions in groups and

share opinions and learning experiences.

How We View Our Own Aging Matters for Wellbeing. Implications in The Context of Disruptions Associated With

The COVID-19 Pandemic.

Kolovos Elli

, Windsor Tim

Flinders University

Background: In the face of the global challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the way we perceive our own aging may

play a crucial role in inuencing our subjective wellbeing. Since the beginning of the pandemic, older adults have frequently

been perceived as a homogenous risk group, advised to strictly follow protective measures. However, research has yet to

examine how such pandemic- related disruptions have impacted people’s experience of subjective wellbeing and whether

these relationships are inuenced by how people view their own aging (i.e., subjective aging).

Aims: This study aimed to examine whether the experience of COVID-19 disruptions was more strongly associated with poorer

subjective wellbeing (i.e., lower positive affect and greater negative affect) when people reported relatively greater awareness

of aging- related losses and relatively lower awareness of aging-related gains.

Method: Cross-sectional questionnaire data were collected from 263 participants from the United States. Subjective aging was

operationalized in terms of one’s awareness of age-related change (AARC), specically, the gains and losses associated with

aging. We developed a measure assessing COVID-19 disruptions to daily life across 3 dimensions (i.e., Social and Lifestyle

Disruption, Work and Health Disruption, and Others Contracting COVID-19).

Results: Moderation effects showed an exacerbating effect of AARC losses on negative affect in the face of Work and Health

Disruption and a protective effect of AARC gains on positive affect in the context of Social and Lifestyle Disruption.

Conclusion: We extend research on wellbeing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and provide evidence of subjective

aging as a potential moderator.

Humanizing AI with Positive Psychology coaching in a digitized way

Loo Eve

Positive Primrose 828687 Singapore

Background: We are increasingly surrounded by articial intelligence (AI) in today’s digital world. One way to humanize AI is

to use it to support positive psychology coaching. Positive psychology coaching is a type of coaching that focuses on helping

people develop their strengths and well-being.

Aim: This project aims to develop a digitized positive psychology coaching game that uses AI to humanize the coaching ex-

perience.

Method: The game will be designed with a user-centered approach, focusing on creating a user experience that is motivating,

engaging, and hope-inspiring. It uses AI to analyze the user’s story build and provide personalized coaching feedback. The AI

will also create an avatar that serves as the user’s coach in the game.

The game will be divided into stages. The user will have to collect points to unlock each stage and level up.

The user can also set up a real-time meet-up schedule with a positive psychology coach to unlock their world faster and earn

rewards. A short animated survey will be conducted at the end of every stage to gather feedback from the user to improve the

game design.

Result: The digitized positive psychology coaching game is valuable for helping people develop their strengths and well-being.

The game will be engaging and motivating, providing users with personalized coaching feedback.

Conclusion: Humanizing AI with Positive Psychology coaching in a digitized way is a game that is designed to help people

ourish together. Coaching, Creativity, Gamication

I am happy as a Muslim: The relationship between religiosity, happiness, and life satisfaction with demographic

variables among Muslims from the UK, Egypt, and the Maldives.

Shahama Aishath

, Carson Jerome

, Abdel-Khalek Ahmed M.

, Patel Aashiya

University of Bolton,

University of Alexandria

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Background: Although happiness is universally understood, it is affected by individual differences, cultural factors and time.

The association between religiosity and happiness has been conrmed by several researcher. The question remains whether

certain factors inuence the relationship between religiosity and happiness. Whether being a certain age or having more

income lead us to experience higher levels of happiness or increase our religiosity.

Aim: This study aimed to explore the association between religiosity, satisfaction with life, and happiness and some demogra-

phic factors which might impact happiness, religiosity, and satisfaction with life among Muslims in the Maldives (N= 415) Egypt

(N= 166) and the UK (N= 117).

Method: Questionnaires were delivered on-line via the Qualtrics platform in both English and Arabic. Scales used included,

the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and the Ok, Religious Attitude Scale

(Islam), (ORASI).

Results: A total of 789 participants (633 female and 156 male), completed the questionnaires. The British sample scored

signicantly higher on SWLS and the OHQ and the Egyptian sample on the ORASI. Happiness, religiosity and satisfaction

with life were analysed across demographic variables. The demographic factors, age, income level had an impact on levels

of happiness and religiosity. Older people were more satised with life, middle age participants had higher levels of religiosity

and happiness. Having sufcient income as well.

Conclusion: Faith plays an important role in happiness. This study showed that religiosity among three different Muslim popu-

lations was correlated with happiness and satisfaction with life.

In Right Relationship - Exploring Systems to Co-create Lasting and Sustainable Wellbeing

Barker Lisa

Heliotropia Pty Ltd

All multicellular lifeforms on Earth share some binding principles including sentience and the heliotropic effect. Our quest to

survive requires us to tend towards life giving behaviours and to actively avoid behaviours that detract from life. As energy

seekers in complex relationship with everything else, organisms who collectively harness and capitalise on life giving energy

within their environment tend strongly towards realising transformational change.

Relationship is at the heart of Wellbeing. When we consciously consider, explore and experiment with how to be ‘in right

relationship’ with ourselves, with others and with our planet, optimal wellbeing outcomes, rather than overwhelm and/or stag-

nation, or worse, denial and destruction, can be realised.

A self-organising system senses and adapts to changes and creates new ones, relying on feedback, reection and action. It

is dynamic and responsive, establishing patterns of being and doing, thinking and behaving that consistently move all integra-

ted parts in a heliotropic direction. The capability of a system is culture and context dependent. Optimising the whole system

makes wellbeing more likely for the individuals within it.

This presentation focuses on the eld of Positive Psychology reimagining and redesigning itself through an eco-centric, nature

informed systems lens. It asks: how can we, as a passionate eld of researchers and practitioners, collectively sense and then

actualise system wide relationship-based innovations so that when the world is faced with dynamic and challenging situations,

the global community can cohere and move as a whole towards optimal outcomes for all?

Interventions that Increase Optimism Lessen Depression

Schutte Nicola

, Malouff John

University of New England

Background: The positive psychology approach to mental health related interventions suggests that a dual focus on positive

and problematic characteristics is benecial and that positive and negative characteristics interact.

Aims: The present study aimed to explore the link between optimism and depression outcomes in intervention studies that

assessed both optimism and depression outcomes for the same participants.

Method: A meta-analysis examined effect sizes for depression and optimism outcomes and links between depression and

optimism outcomes. Inclusion criteria for studies were that they used random assignment to intervention or control conditions,

measured the effect of the intervention on both optimism and depression in the same participants, and provided adequate

statistical information for calculation of effect sizes. Eighteen studies with a total of 2,153 participants were included in the

meta-analysis.

Results: Across studies the weighted effect sizes for the impact of interventions on both optimism (g = 0.38, 95% CI [0.20,

0.56], SE = .94, p = .0001) and depression (g = 0.46, 95% CI [0.25, 0.66], SE = .11, p = .0001) were signicant. Across studies,

optimism and depression outcome effect sizes were associated with one another (r(17)=.58, 95%CI [.16, .84], p=.01). Meta-

regression analyses also indicated linkages between the two outcomes in that the optimism effect sizes moderated depression

effect sizes and depression effect sizes moderated optimism effect sizes.

Conclusion: The results of the study lend support to a dual focus on positive and problematic characteristics and have impli-

cations for theory and practice.

Investigation of character strengths of Italian children in early childhood period: A psychometric network approach

Abudurexiti Kayina

1,2

, Rossi Beatrice

, Ciardo Clarissa

, Stella Massimo

, Franchin Laura

University of Trento, Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science,

University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Education and Human Science,

University of Trento, CogNosco Lab, Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science

Background: Research of character strengths has been investigating the constructs of various virtues, such as gratitude, love

of learning, open-mindedness, and authenticity, among many others. Recently, several international studies have underlined

the importance of extending such investigations also to early childhood education and care (e.g., Lottman et al., 2017; Owens

& Waters, 2020). However, there is a lack of studies in the Italian context investigating character strengths of young children.

Aims: The present study explores the Character Strengths Inventory for Early Childhood (CSI-EC; Shoshani, 2019) in Italy

using psychometric networks.

Method: In total, 123 Italian parents of children aged from 3-6 years old, have lled out an Italian version of CSI-EC. CSI-EC

measures 24 character strengths with 96 items. Network analysis was conducted on these 96 items and their clustering was

observed and analyzed, together with reliability tests.

Results: We found that correlations of items about character strengths led to clustering together several strengths, e.g. Love

of Learning and Curiosity, or Social Intelligence and Teamwork, in agreement with relevant literature about these constructs

in young children. Tuning the original sorting of items in the clusters identied by network psychometrics, we not only improve

the reliability scores but also introduce a shortened version of CSI-EC validated on a relatively contained sample of Italian

children.

Conclusions: Our results highlight specic character strengths of children that might be better investigated in future early

childhood research and practice.

Is ethical consumption related to Eudaimonic or Hedonic wellbeing? Analysis from a Switzerland-Japan Perspec-

tive

Hashinaga Makiko

, Rössel Jörg

, Schenk Patrick

Sapporo Gakuin University,

University of Zurich,

University of Lucerne

Research Background & Purposes: Ethical consumption is regarded as a step towards a more sustainable, just, and mindful

society (United Nations 2023; Hashinaga 2023). It means that individuals express moral, political or environmental values with

their purchase decisions. Research has identied various factors, such as convenience or social norms, as determinants of

ethical consumption (Schenk et al. 2018). Limited studies have shown the role of subjective wellbeing as a motivating goal

for ethical consumption (Carrigan et al. 2023). Moreover, these studies did not differentiate between various conceptions of

happiness. To address this gap, we investigate hedonic and eudaimonic wellbeing as motivations for ethical consumption.

Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: We hypothesize that the pursuit of hedonic and eudaimonic wellbeing provides moti-

vations for ethical consumption (Asano et al. 2014; Huta/Ryan 2010). While hedonic orientations see pleasure as the source

of wellbeing, eudaimonia represents an orientation towards the pursuit of a virtuous life.

H1: The stronger the hedonic orientation, the more frequent ethical consumption. H2: The stronger the eudaimonic orientation,

the more frequent ethical consumption.

We measured various types of ethical consumption behaviors (fair trade, local, vegetarian, etc.) and orientations towards

hedonic/eudaimonic wellbeing, using a validated two-factor scale (Asano et al. 2020; all Cronbach’s alpha > 0.7) based on an

online survey of representative samples in Switzerland and Japan (n=2012). We used multivariate regression for the analysis.

Findings: Preliminary results conrm the hypotheses: Hedonic and eudaimonic orientations are positively correlated with

various types of ethical consumption. This is more pronounced among Japanese than Swiss respondents.

Conclusion & Signicance: The study shows that ethical consumption is motivated by hedonic and eudaimonic conceptions

of subjective wellbeing in different cultural contexts. Ethical consumption contributes to a more sustainable, just and mindful

society while also providing a means for consumers to pursue a virtuous and happy life.

Is investing in employee happiness good for Brand Equity?

Tsaban Shay

1,2

, Shavit Tal

Peres Academic Center,

Ariel University,

The Open University of Israel

Brand equity, a pivotal concept, gauges a brand’s perceived value. Its signicance in corporate success is underscored by its

potential to elevate customer satisfaction, retention, advocacy, protability, market share, and competitive positioning.

This study investigates the impact of corporate investment in employee happiness on consumer-based brand equity. We

hypothesized that investing in employee happiness can positively inuence brand equity . To scrutinize this hypothesis, we

surveyed 1,325 participants from the US and UK. Respondents evaluated three dimensions of brand equity: product quality,

service quality, and brand attachment, based on their employee happiness initiatives.

Our ndings afrm that investing in employee happiness yields a favourable effect on brand equity. However, instances where

a company compromised employee happiness were associated with a negative impact on brand equity. Notably, detrimental

actions undermining employee happiness exhibited a more pronounced adverse effect on brand equity compared to positive

actions that enhanced it. Regression analysis show that respondents who believe in the importance of work-life balance tend

to perceive brands negatively when companies compromise employee happiness. Moreover, the degree to which participants

believe in the genuineness of rms’ CSR efforts had a positive impact on all three dimensions of brand equity.

These results underscore that personal values of the respondents and their perceptions of a company’s practices play a

crucial role in shaping brand equity. Employee happiness, therefore, emerges not only as a driver of productivity and retention

but also as a strategic asset capable of inuencing brand equity, thereby providing a competitive advantage for companies.

Is There a Mid-Career Crisis? An Investigation of the Relationship Between Age and Job Satisfaction Across Occu-

pations Based on Four Large UK Datasets

Zhou Ying

, Zou Min

, Williams Mark

University of Surrey

Previous research has produced mixed evidence on the relationship between age and job satisfaction. Despite the broad

consensus that job satisfaction generally rises from midlife to older ages, there is considerable controversy over whether it

increases or decreases during the rst half of an individual’s career span. Drawing on four nationally representative cross-sec-

tional and longitudinal labour market datasets that cover a total of 108,401 employees in the UK (the Skills and Employment

Survey, the Workplace Employee Relations Survey, the British Household Panel Survey, and the UK Household Longitudinal

Study), this study shows that only employees in professional and technical occupations experience a U-shaped job satisfac-

tion trajectory over their working lives. In contrast, job satisfaction increases linearly with age for those who work in elementary

or routine ofce occupations. This study contributes to resolving a longstanding puzzle in the job satisfaction literature by

revealing signicant variations in the association between age and job satisfaction across occupations. While many studies

suggest a U-shaped relationship between age and job satisfaction, our ndings challenge this as a universal truth. Such a

pattern is not consistent across all jobs, implying that the commonly referenced ‘mid-career crisis’ cannot be purely attributed

to inherent biological changes associated with aging. Rather, our study highlights the importance of the occupational context

for shaping how people experience their work as they grow older.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

„It’s you – it’s me – it’s us“

Bergmeister Barbara

, Riedmann Ulla

, Strolz Bertram

Akademie für Positive Psychologie/ Institut Strolz

Background: The Austrian Quality Management System (QMS) and curricula provide schools with ample opportunities to

deliver effective education. The attitude of positive psychology serves as the foundation for education provision, which is im-

plemented in schools through personnel, organizational, and teaching development. In Vorarlberg, several schools of different

types have begun implementing school development in the aforementioned areas based on positive psychology principles.

Goals: To increase the job satisfaction and well-being of employees and students.

Concrete measures for teaching, organizational, and personal development should be implemented based on PERMA-Lead,

PERMA-Teach, COOL, and the 6 standards of education. These include personal responsibility, responsibility for others, re-

ection, search for meaning, willingness to communicate, perception of happiness, and not allowing inhumanity.

This concept should be implemented throughout the organization, from the leadership to the employees and learners, under

the ‘brand’ POOL (POSITIVES OFFENES LERNEN), emphasizing positive and open learning.

To win over the teachers to this project of development and to overcome their resistance.

Method: The Master’s thesis titled ‘DER MENSCH IM MITTELPUNKT DER SCHULENTWICKLUNG – EINE FRAGE DER

HALTUNG’ examines the interventions based on Positive Psychology that were implemented in the development of individual

schools in Vorarlberg and evaluates the effectiveness of these measures through qualitative content analysis.

Results: The measures taken at the examined schools are perceived as benecial and lead to well-being, although to a very

different extent.

Conclusion: The role model effect and mindset of the school leadership are central to the development process. A strength-

based approach to task distribution is benecial to the process. The use of positive psychology promotes an attitude that is

evident throughout the school.

Journey towards Flourishing: Insights from Teaching Positive Psychology for a Decade

Blickhan Daniela

Inntal Institute,, Rosenheim

Background: Since 2013 I have been teaching positive psychology in the eld of further education and business. My training

courses were the rst to be accredited in the German speaking countries by DACH PP, the German speaking Association of

Positive Psychology. The curriculum is built upon two MAPP degree courses ( U P enn, USA, and UEL London, England )). In

my PhD dissertation (Blickhan, 2017) I was able to show that participants during and after PP courses show greater increases

in ourishing , life satisfaction, positive mood when compared to participants in a coaching course. Furthermore, their levels

of Ill-being (depression and burnout ) decreased.

Aims: Over a decade I have taught 25 cohorts and more than 400 participants of comprehensive 16 day PP training courses

(accredited by DACH PP) In my talk I would like to present highlight s from teaching positive psy chology to heterogen eo us

audiences in further education, covering backgrounds

from therapy, education, health , business and leadership. I will talk about curricula and how specic combinations and con-

nections between empiri cal ndings can support practitioners in gaining deeper insight into the scientic background of PP

. This e nsur es well founded, responsible dissemination and applicatio n of the ndings of PP. I will share metaphors which

help pracitioners understand and apply scientic research in their settings. I will outline how the rst, second and third waves

of PP can be integrated in teaching PP in further education.

Method: Interactive presentation including short demonstrations Results: Participants will be introduced to a comprehensive

16 day PP training course which has been running successfully in Germany and Austria for more than 10 years They will gain

insight in how to translate scientic models and empirical ndings into a language and into metaphors which are accepted and

understood in ap p lied settings, such as therapy, education, health , business and leadership

Conclusion: This talk offers insights in to a comprehensive curriculum for teaching PP to heterogeneous audiences in further

education which has been proven successful for a decade.

Leader’s virtues and ethical leadership style – joined effect on follower’s engagement

Zbierowski Przemyslaw

, Gojny-Zbierowska Milena

Department of HRM, University of Economics in Katowice,

Department of Entrepreneurship, University of Economics in Katowice

Background: Virtues matter in life, but also in leadership. Leader’s virtues have been found to be positively associated with

a range of positive follower outcomes, like trust, moral identity, organizational identication and well-being. Those positive

aspects are linked to persistence, commitment and energy.

Aims: In this study we ask how do the virtuousness and ethics of the leader inuence follower’s work engagement. We hypo-

thesize that ethical behaviours of the leader strengthen the effect of virtues on engagement.

Method: We use the data from 718 followers and use the VIA Signature Strengths Scale, UWES and ethical leadership scale.

Results: We found that for each of the facets of follower’s engagement (vigor, dedication, absorption) the virtues of the leader

play an important role. Interestingly, each of the facets is boosted by different set of leader’s virtues, however, courage is the

strongest predictor of all of them. Ethical leadership style moderates the effect of justice on vigour and the effects of courage

on dedication and absorption. The effect of justice on vigour is positive and signicant only when the leader is not ethical,

whereas the effect of courage on dedication and absorption is stronger when the leader behaves ethically then when the

leader behaves not ethically.

Conclusion: We contribute to the literature by presenting a clear distinction between virtuous leadership and ethical leader-

ship. We point to their joined effect on followers. We also show that three facets of work engagement are driven differently by

leader’s virtues and ethical leadership style

Linking Teachers’ Well-Being with Students’ Well-Being: A Multi-Level Study Conducted During COVID-19

Lavy Shiri

, Naama Eman

The University of Haifa

Background and Aims: The COVID-19 pandemic introduced major challenges to education systems worldwide, and has

notably hampered students’ well-being. In the present research, we propose that teachers may contribute to students’ ability

to maintain their well-being in the face of such challenges. Specically, we propose that teachers who maintained higher

well-being during the crisis, may have managed to have better relationships with their students, and positively impacted their

well-being and coping. We provide an initial examination of this idea, by exploring associations between teachers’ well-being

and their students’ well-being and decreased behavior problems, toward the end of the second school-year with COVID-19.

Method: The study comprised 33 homeroom teachers and their 564 students from 4th and 5th grades. All participants com-

pleted measures of well-being (Positive and Negative Affect Scales and Satisfaction with Life Scale). Students also completed

brief measures of their relationship with the teacher and their behavior problems.

Results: HLM analysis generally supported the hypotheses, indicating signicant links between teachers’ well-being indica-

tors and students’ positive affect and satisfaction with life (but not with their negative affect). Teachers’ positive affect and life

satisfaction were also negatively associated with students’ internalized problems. Additionally, teachers’ life satisfaction was

positively associated with the quality of their relationships with students, and teachers’ negative affect was negatively asso-

ciated with it.

Conclusions: The ndings highlight the potential effect of teachers’ well-being on their relationships with students and on stu-

dents’ well- being and coping, and propose that investing in teachers’ well-being may directly benet their students.

Main characteristic and measures of Group Flow in Collaborative Learning : a systematic Prisma review

Wawak Faustine

, Sparrow Laurent

, Heutte Jean

Univ. Lille, ULR 4354 - CIREL - Centre Interuniversitaire de Recherche en Education de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,

Univ. Lille, UMR CNRS 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitive & Affective Laboratory, F-59000 Lille, France.

Background: Project-based education is at the heart of education for transitions, as part of the sustainable development skills

trainings. Collaborative learning is a central area of research, especially in adult or higher students training. Over the past

decade, we have seen innovations regarding the learning environments to match these educational needs. The learning ex-

periences of students within these environments, particularly for collaborative problem-solving simulations, haven’t received

so much attention.

Aims: Such learning experiences are intrinsically linked to social interactions, and research on the social dimension of Flow

is recent. In addition to the lack of a shared conceptual framework for collective Flow, empirical studies are very few in our

context. This study aims to develop a systematic review on collective Flow and collaborative problem solving, intending to

present internal and external indicators, to describe the learning experience.

Method: PRISMA statement was used for data collection. The analysis included a total of 904 articles from Google Scholar

databases over the period 2000–2023; and was based on 35 articles after passing the inclusion criteria.

Results show that adaptive interpersonal synchrony is recognized as one of the major characteristics of collective ow in

our context. Indicators describing the dynamics of synchrony (and not only its occurrence) highlight the adaptive process of

students.

Conclusion: Modelling collective ow in CPS simulation depends on considering cycles of interpersonal synchrony (in and out

of synchrony) and triangulation between external indicators (behavioral (1), physiological (2)) and internal indicators (self-as-

sessment questionnaire (3)). Recommendations for future researches are discussed.

Meaningful tourism experiences and emotions: The role of emotional intensity on the attribution of meaning

Câmara Ester

, Pocinho Margarida

, Jesus Saúl Neves

, Agapito Dora

Research Centre for Tourism, Sustainability and Well-Being (CinTurs)

Positive psychology maximises the contribution of tourism experiences to tourists’ well-being. Three vital characteristics are

the development of positive emotions, the search for meaning and purpose, and life satisfaction. When applied to tourism,

positive psychology focuses on how intensely they recall determined characteristics of that specic travel. The present study

intends to analyse the impact of different kinds of activities on the meaning attached to the experiences. The sample comprises

253 participants, mainly female (75.9%), with a mean of 33 years old. Data was collected through the Memorable Tourism Ex-

perience Scale and the “emotional intensity” dimension of the Tourism Memory Characteristics Scale. Data was analysed with

SMART-PLS4. The results show good psychometric qualities concerning the reliability of the indicators (λ>.707), constructs’

reliability – Chronbach alpha (α), composite reliability (ρc), and the Dijkstra and Henseler index composite reliability (ρa) –

convergent and discriminant validity – Average Variance Extracted (AVE) and Heterotrait-Monotrait ratio (HTMT), respectively.

The determination coefcients (R2) showed that the indicators Refreshment (R2=.427; ƒ2=.744), Meaningfulness (R2=.411;

ƒ2=.697), Novelty (R2=.353; ƒ2=.546), and Hedonism (R2=.269; ƒ2=.367) had the higher substantial effects and thus, better

explain the variance of emotional intensity. In conclusion, the emotional intensity of determined travelling experiences is better

remembered when associated with experiences that involve freedom and relaxation, meaning and importance, novelty, and

emotional involvement. Thus, new guidelines that promote unique, refreshed, meaningful, and hedonic experiences could, on

a long-term basis, enable tourists to emotionally recall them as intense, powerful, and worthwhile repeating.

MIND FULL OR MINDFUL? SAM – A health promotion program for students

Piskernik Anna

, Wiedenhöfer Janik

, Maurer Linda

University of Klagenfurt

Background: SAM is a health promotion program encouraging students to use their resources through compassion and mind-

fulness-based interventions. The program was developed in a multi-stage participatory research process with students, which

comprised several feedback and revision loops. As students are considered a vulnerable group for distress and mental health

problems, it was essential to incorporate their real-life experiences.

Aims: The current study aimed to evaluate the rst version of the SAM program among a nationwide sample of Austrian stu-

dents using a mixed-methods design.

Method: A randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the inuence of SAM on well-being (WHO-5), (self-)com-

passion (SCS), Depression, Anxiety, Stress (DASS), and mindfulness (MAAS). While the experimental group was introduced

to the 21-day health promotion program, the control group received three information sheets on nutrition, exercise, and stress.

Additionally, to the pre- and post-assessment, a follow-up was conducted after six months using a mixed methods approach.

Results: The study involved 114 students (81.6% female), with an average age of 26 years (SD = 7.399; range: 18-61).

MANOVA analysis revealed a signicant improvement in the outcome variables over time in both groups. Despite the high

acceptance and satisfaction with SAM, the program intensity was judged too high.

Conclusion: Results show that even minor interventions have a signicant impact. SAM is currently being comprehensively

revised and further analysis is in preparation. Furthermore, it is being adapted for additional target groups.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Nature, culture and sustainable living: Frameworks for creative wellbeing

Løvoll Helga S..

Volda University College

‘Creativity’ and ‘wellbeing’ are large concepts. Combining them, the intertwined connection between being creative as a func-

tion of living well, and opposite, seeing wellbeing as a driver of creativity, appears as a strong concept. However, both initial

concepts could be biased by western, individual thinking, that hinder a sustainable approach, on the cost of nature and culture

values, and social dignity. By an interdisciplinary approach, we aim to overcome some of these biases.

In this presentation, main ndings from the monography “Exploring Creative Wellbeing Frameworks in Context: Nature,

Culture, and Sustainable Futures”, will be presented. The monography will be published in Routledge (2024). (Editors are

Wenche Torrissen and Helga S. Løvoll)

Research questions were:

• What are the conceptual frameworks for creative wellbeing?

• How does creative wellbeing impact people’s lives and contribute to build a sustainable future?

To answer these questions, 11 peer reviewed chapters explore creative wellbeing conceptually, as well as the implications

for people’s lives. Contributors come from elds of psychology, theatre, philosophy, social science, teacher education, and

outdoor studies.

Through conceptual and empirical analysis, we have built an argument that creative wellbeing is a way of living to enrich our

potential for human ourishing. This is also a mindset approach of how to identify values worth living for. We suggest creati-

ve wellbeing is for a broader audience, but also a concept focusing on hope, and a mindset for transition to our sustainable

futures. Frameworks will be presented.

Nature-Based Interventions: A Review of Reviews

Kaleta Branislav

, Campbell Stephen

, Burke Jolanta

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Background: Nature-based interventions (NBIs) are activities that use nature to improve health and well-being. A wide variety

of NBIs exist under different names, using a wide range of approaches, and target populations.

Aims: This review of reviews explored what types of NBIs exist and what factors impact their effectiveness.

Method: The following databases were searched for NBI systematic reviews: Academic Search Complete, MEDLINE, APA

PsycInfo, and CINAHL. The literature search resulted in 357 articles, of which 88 reviews were included in the current review.

Results: The review identied a comprehensive list of research-informed NBIs which can be utilised by medical and mental

health professionals and the general public to improve individuals’ health and well-being. Furthermore, multiple themes have

emerged concerning the effectiveness of NBIs in improving health and well-being.

Conclusion: The ndings from this review will be discussed in terms of policy change in applying NBIs in clinical settings. As

such, the ndings will inform medical professionals and provide guidelines for applying NBIs in medicine and ultimately contri-

bute to the populations’ health shifting towards physical and psychological ourishing.

“New Possibilities for Being Human”: Heroism and Positive Psychology

Condren Michael

Quality of Life Research Center, Claremont Graduate University

“… heroism reects the work of pioneering individuals opening up new possibilities for being human. As such, it makes sense

for psychologists to try to understand [heroes] – their motives, their strengths, their strategies for persevering against the

forces of inertia and the threats to personal comfort, or even of survival.” (Csikszentmihalyi et al., 2017)

The empirical study of heroism has experienced a renaissance recently, sparked by Franco, Blau and Zimbardo’s foundational

2011 scholarship that conceptually distinguished heroism from altruism and other similar constructs, developed a taxonomy

of heroism and proposed multiple research directions. Researchers have subsequently produced a body of multi-method,

multi-disciplinary, empirical and theoretical research on the origins, types and processes of heroism. Work in this growing eld

ranges from basic and translational research to applications (e.g., training programs that develop heroic behavior in children

and adolescents). However, much work remains to fully understand heroic behaviours.

Following a brief overview of current heroism theory and research, a recent study of a group of social heroes whose innovative

approaches to the AIDS crisis led to greater inclusiveness and positive sociocultural change globally will be discussed. This

longitudinal, multi-level content analysis of heroes’ lived experiences identied individual and organizational factors which

helped to sustain their heroic behaviors over a seven-year organizational life cycle. Experiences of ow, meaning, positive

emotions and positive organizational factors (job resources, organizational identity) were associated with sustained social

heroism despite high levels of negative individual and contextual factors.

Directions for future research and application will be discussed.

Novelty, Positive Emotion, and Social Connection in Shared Experiences

Hill Brian

, Ward Peter

, Mitas Ondrej

, Shahvali Moji

Brigham Young University,

Breda University of Applied Sciences

Background: Novelty and positive emotion have been studied from the context of experiences. (Mitas & Bastiaansen, 2018;

Skarvronskays, et al., 2020). Some have postulated that novelty and positive emotion are also related to social connection in

shared experiences. (Hill, et al., 2023).

Aims: The purpose of this project is to consider the relationships between experience novelty, positive emotion felt by indivi-

duals, and feelings of social connection during shared tourist experiences.

Method: Study participants (N= 607) visiting one of 41 tourist destinations in The Netherlands completed a post-experience

survey collected via a digital tablet using Qualtrics. Novelty, positive emotion, and social connection were measured with stan-

dard questionnaire items previously used in peer-reviewed studies.

Results: Experience impact is signicantly correlated with positive emotion (.392), novelty (.382), connection with people just

met (.265), and connection with people traveling together (.204). Though this data set might be analyzed from the perspective

of a variety of dependent variables, one regression model, for instance, showed positive emotion (b = .21, p < .05) and novelty

(b = .11, p < .05) predicted feelings of connection to people just met (R2=.13).

Conclusions: In shared experiences, novelty, positive emotion, and feelings of social connection are clearly interrelated. Still,

further study is needed to sort out which of these factors inuences the others. Does novelty in shared experiences lead to

more positive emotion and greater social connection, or does the social connection brought to a new experience heighten the

positive emotion?

On the interplay between different parenting styles, children’s character strengths, and children’s life satisfaction

Weber Marco

MSH Medical School Hamburg

Background: Parenting styles are possible impact factors on the development of children’s character strengths. Furthermore,

both parenting styles and children’s character strengths are associated with children’s life satisfaction. Aims: This exploratory

study was designed to examine the interplay between different parenting styles (i.e. authoritarian, authoritative, permissive,

strength-based parenting), children`s character strengths, and children’s life satisfaction.

Method: A sample of 204 parents completed online self-report measures on their own authoritarian, authoritative, permissive,

and strength-based parenting styles. Moreover, parents provided observer-ratings of their children’s 24 character strengths as

well as of their children’s global life satisfaction. The mean age of the parents was 37.5 years (from 24 to 51 years), and 86%

were female. The mean age of the children was 5.2 years (from 2 to 8 years), and 52% were female.

Results: Generally, positive relations were found between authoritative as well as strength-based parenting and specic cha-

racter strengths. Authoritarian parenting showed only negative correlations with specic character strengths. Strength- based

parenting explained variance in character strengths beyond authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive parenting styles. Aut-

horitarian, authoritative, and strength-based parenting styles were meaningfully associated with children’s life satisfaction. Me-

diation analyses showed specic character strengths as mediator variables between specic parenting styles as independent

variables and life satisfaction as dependent variable.

Conclusion: This exploratory study shows that different parenting styles relate differently to children’s character strengths as

well as to their life satisfaction. The strength-based parenting style appears to be especially relevant for both children’s cha-

racter strengths and children’s life satisfaction.

Online Vigilance, Mindfulness and Wellbeing in University Students: Moderating Role of Personality Traits and

Doom Scrolling

Zafar Nida

, Sadaqat Sana

Department of Psychology, Lahore Garrison University, Lahore

The present research aimed to investigate relationship between online vigilance, mindfulness and wellbeing in university stu-

dents and to investigate moderating role of personality traits and doom scrolling. It was hypothesized: (a) there is likely to be a

positive relationship between online vigilance and wellbeing in university students, (b) There is likely to be a positive relation-

ship between online vigilance and mindfulness in university students, (c) There is likely to be a positive relationship between

mindfulness and wellbeing in university students, (d) Extraversion, agreeableness and neuroticism are likely to moderate the

negative relationship between online vigilance and wellbeing, (e) Conscientiousness and imagination are likely to moderate

the positive relationship between online vigilance and wellbeing, (f) Doomscrolling is likely to moderate the negative relation-

ship between online vigilance and wellbeing, (g) Mindfulness is likely to mediate the relationship between online vigilance and

wellbeing in university students & (h) Personality traits and doomscrolling are likely to moderate relationship in online vigilance

and wellbeing via mindfulness. Correlational research design was used in the research. The sample consisted of 244 universi-

ty students from different public and private universities of Lahore, Pakistan. The Age range of the sample was from 18 years

to 25 years (M=22.04, SD=1.90). For assessment, Online Vigilance Scale (Reinecke et al., 2018), Mindful Attention Awaren-

ess Scale (Brown & Ryan, 2003), Ryff’s Psychological Wellbeing Scale (Ryff & Keyes,1995), Mini International Personality

Item Pool Scale (Donnellan et al., 2006), and Doomscrolling Scale (Sharma et al., 2022) were used. Psychometric analysis,

Pearson-product moment correlation and moderated mediation were applied for analyses. Results showed signicant positive

correlation between online vigilance and mindfulness and negative correlation with wellbeing. Results also showed that mode-

rating effect of online vigilance and neuroticism was signicantly negatively mediated by mindfulness. The moderating effect

of online vigilance and imagination and moderating effect of online vigilance and agreeableness was signicantly positively

mediated by mindfulness. Results showed that mindfulness mediated the relationship between online vigilance and wellbeing

in university students. Findings of current study have signicant implications for researchers to further work effectively in this

domain of online vigilance and doomscrolling. This study has crucial implications for students, parents, and instructors in un-

derstanding the signicance of negative social network addicted habits by designing training programs. In this way they can

monitoring one’s own media patterns to improve their psychological health and general wellbeing.

Parents Supporting Young Children’s Need for Self-Determination: Positive Child Mental Health Correlates and Out-

comes

Joussemet Mireille

, Corbeil Jessica

, Mageau Geneviève

Université de Montréal,

Clark University

Numerous studies support Self-Determination Theory’s (SDT) tenet about the benets of satisfying children’s need for autono-

my. However, relatively fewer studies on parental autonomy support (PAS) have targeted early childhood, compared to middle

childhood or adolescence, even though PAS is a main component of parenting quality and early parental inuences are of

particular signicance.

First, we will present a systematic review examining PAS studies that focused on early childhood (27 studies; Joussemet &

Mageau, 2023). PAS (during play, conversation, help provision or discipline) was linked to children’s executive functioning,

memory, engagement, committed compliance, and later academic and social adjustment.

Second, we will present a pilot study assessing the impact of a parenting program teaching PAS on preschoolers’ mental

health. Following the promising results of RCT (293 parents of school-aged children) showing that the How-to Parenting

Program led to decreases in child externalizing symptoms, compared to a waitlist condition (Joussemet et al., in revision),

Corbeil et al. (2022) evaluated the efcacy of this program when delivered online to 20 parents of 3- and 4-year-olds. They

found that compared to parents in an active control condition, there were larger increases in child socio-emotional competen-

cies from pre- to post-test (t(18) = -.54, p = .46; d = .24) as well as greater decreases in externalizing problems (t(18) = 1.88,

p = .92; d = .85) and internalizing ones (t(18) = 1.38, p = .16; d = .62). This 6-week program emphasizing PAS seems to be a

protective factor for preschoolers’ mental health. Autonomy support; parenting; early childhood, psychological health.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Perceived social support is associated with lesser psychological distress in LGBQ+ Lithuanians

Katinaite Rasa

, Žardeckaite-Matulaitiene Kristina

Vytautas Magnus university

Background: Due to living in heteronormative society, LGBQ+ people have a higher risk of experiencing psychological issues

(Meyer, 2003). Although positive social experiences can act as protective factors, buffering the negative effects of societal

stigma. This study aims to explore associations between psychological distress and perceived social support, acceptance of

sexual orientation, community, and individual resilience.

Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among LGBQ+ people living in Lithuania (N=181) as part of a project funded

by the Research Council of Lithuania. The following scales were used: K-10 scale (Kessler et al., 2002) for psychological di-

stress, MSPSS (Zimet et al., 1990) for perceived social support, BRS (Smith et al., 2008) for individual resilience, and part of

the Index of Disclosure of Sexual Orientation (Costa et al., 2013) for sexual orientation acceptance. Community resilience was

assessed with the question “I feel like I am part of the LGBTQ+ community”, using a Likert scale.

Results: The study revealed that stronger community and individual resilience as well as social support from family and signi-

cant other, but not from friends, have been associated with lower psychological distress and its aspects (depression, anxiety,

fatigue, worthlessness). Although there were no signicant associations between psychological distress and perceived accep-

tance of sexual orientation.

Conclusions: Results suggest that the daily experience of social support and not an acceptance of sexual orientation plays a

more important role in preventing psychological distress in LGBQ+ individuals. Therefore, it is important to foster the activity

of LGBTQ+ organizations and self-support networks.

Perceptions of Acceptability and Utility of Ongoing Coaching to Enhance Implementation of the Well-Being Promo-

tion Program in Schools

Fefer Sarah

, Suldo Shannon

, Zhuang Shum Kai

, Barry Emily

, Kiefer Sarah

, Blass Jacqueline

, Mahoney Kristen

BCBA University of Massachusetts Amherst,

University of South Florida,

University of Tennessee Knoxville,

Triumph Center, Boston, MA

Attendees will learn how to structure and conduct coaching to support school-based implementation of a small-group positive

psychology intervention called the Well-Being Promotion Program (WBPP; Suldo, 2016). Presenters will share an innovative

model of ongoing coaching for delivering this small group positive psychology intervention to increase student subjective well-

being in middle schools.

Research shows that coaching is associated with improved practitioner skills and treatment adherence (Kretlow & Bartholo-

mew, 2010), which predicts better outcomes (Novins et al., 2013). However, there is much to learn about effective coaching

for school-based implementation of positive psychology interventions, and there is little agreement around coaching’s critical

elements (Ashworth et al., 2018)

We have iteratively developed, implemented, and evaluated a coaching model that aims to maintain delity and enhance

group engagement through attention to counseling skills and group process variables. Our model draws from motivational

interviewing (Miller & Rollnick, 2013), behavioral skills training (Miltenberger, 2012), and positive psychology (Seligman &

Csikszentmihalyi, 2000).

School-based interventionists completed a 12-hour initial professional development in the WBPP, then participated in weekly

coaching meetings throughout delivery of 13-15 sessions. Between each WBPP session, coaches listen to audiotaped ses-

sions and prepare standardized written feedback to identify strengths and suggestions related to delity and group process.

Coaches share this feedback with each interventionist in 30-minute meetings.

Results from interviews conducted with interventionists coached during 2020-2022 were analyzed and used for model impro-

vement. Additional interviews (January 2023 and 2024). query interventionists’ perceptions of the acceptability and utility of

coaching

PERMA-Lead: A Behavioral Leadership Approach to Positive Leadership

Ebner Markus

University of Vienna 1220 Wien

Martin Seligman’s PERMA model (Seligman, 2012) has inspired several areas within psychology. Consequently, in the eld

of organizational psychology, a new Positive Leadership approach, PERMA-Lead, was developed (Ebner, 2016). It denes

Positive Leadership as specic leadership behaviour, that increases PERMA in employees. Psychological tests, the PERMA-

Lead-Proler and a PERMA-Lead-360°-Feedback, were developed at the University of Vienna in cooperation with TU Vienna

(Ebner, 2018; Ebner, Dreger, & Hartner-Tiefenthaler, 2019) and more than 1000 consultants and coaches in German-speaking

countries have already been certied to use this approach in practice.

Our studies have shown already the positive impact of PERMA-Lead in organizations: the higher the PERMA-Lead score

of the supervisor – the lower the average number of sick leave days and burn out risk of employees. Additionally, a positive

impact of this leadership style on the well-being of supervisors as well as a correlation between the average amount costu-

mers spend in a shop and the shop managers PERMA-Lead behaviour could be clearly shown (Ebner, 2019). Our two current

research projects show that this leadership style even has a signicant correlation with turnover, psychological safety, and

the motivation of teachers in schools and healthcare (Ebner & Götz, in press) as well as at the police force (Ebner & Mauri, in

press) In practice workshop-designs, using the PERMA-Lead structure has been developed.

Several companies, such as IKEA, Lidl, T-Mobile, Bosch, and many others, have already integrated PERMA-Lead into their

leadership development programs (Ebner, 2020).

Personal growth in micro niches - the role of positive place experiences

Martos Tamas

, Sallay Viola

University of Szeged, Institute of Psychology

Background: Personal growth (PG) is associated with increased resilience and social-emotional well-being. Social-ecological

approaches view PG as a subjective process emerging among facilitating environmental experiences, for example, in persons’

favorite places (Korpela et al., 2020).

Aims: We present the niche model of PG and demonstrate that positive environmental experiences may lead to PG across

several types of real-life niches. This way, we extend the favorite place model of environmental self-regulation to other niche

experiences. Method: In a cross-sectional study (N = 674, mean age 36,7 years, SD = 14,7), we asked respondents to name

their places of stress, recovery, and personal growth, along with a description of the situation. Moreover, we measured si-

tuation-specic positive and distressing self-experiences, excitement, and PG (Personal Growth and Development Scale;

Anderson et al., 2019), related to each of the three places.

Results: SEM modeling (Chi2 = 2224.7, df = 771, p < .001, CFI = .92, RMSEA = .052) showed similar pattern across the three

micro niches. Higher positive self-experience and excitement in the niche predicted higher niche-related PG experiences,

even in the place of stress (std. path coefcients = between 0.244 and 0.339, all ps < .05). No signicant associations were

found between distress and PG experiences.

Conclusion: Positive experiences in a specic social-ecological environment (i.e., a micro niche), even in adverse circumstan-

ces such as in places of stress, may be supportive of the person’s emergent growth tendencies. Consequences for everyday

positive functioning will be discussed.

Placing Well-Being at the Heart of Education

Forman Fiona

Fiona Forman Well-Being, K36RW2 Dublin

It is now more important than ever to place well-being at the very heart of our education systems. Positive Psychology can

offer us an evidence-based framework through which to do so. By creating the conditions for children to thrive and ourish,

as well as teaching them well-being skills, we can equip young people to become active participants in understanding and

nurturing their own well-being.

This session will outline a practical, evidence-informed approach based on the presenter’s personal experience of embed-

ding Positive Psychology into her own teaching, and susequently bringing this approach into hundreds of schools throughout

Ireland over the last 4 years.

Positive classroom climate in action: combining narrative and positive psychology practices with teachers and stu-

dents

Pisanu Francesco

, Coletta Federica

, Rubino Francesco

Department of Education and Culture, Province of Trento

This study investigates the fusion of narrative practices and positive psychology (Tarragona, 2019) within the Erasmus+

TASC project, conducted across Italy, Spain, Lithuania, and Turkey from 2020 to 2023. TASC seeks to augment student well-

being, civic sense, and social engagement, incorporating positive emotions, optimism, gratitude, goal setting, and character

strengths to mitigate academic distress by developing non-cognitive and transversal skills (Peterson, 2006). Acknowledging

the paramount role of classroom climate, inuenced by historical class events, interpersonal relationships, and student de-

velopment, TASC, grounded in social constructivism, crafted the CLASS framework (Construct, Leadership, Aim, Support,

and Solutions) to operationalize its objectives (Miller et al., 2020). The EPR methodology (Exploration, Practice, Reection)

guided teachers and students in implementing educational practices, drawing on Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development,

Engeström’s expansive learning, and Ericsson’s deliberate practices. Operationalized through rubrics, posters, and diaries,

EPR forms a cyclical process linking exploration and reection, akin to Vygotsky’s ZPD, ensuring a potentially innite self-

sustaining cycle. Formative assessment rubrics and class posters supported teachers and students throughout the explora-

tion, practice, and reection. The perpetually evolving EPR approach contributes to continuous improvements in classroom

climates, with reection occurring at least a week post-implementation to ensure meaningful learning transfer. This method

was rened through collaborative efforts involving 100 teachers and 1000 student ambassadors across the four countries,

engaging in training and experimental activities. This abstract underscores the innovative integration of narrative practices and

positive psychology through the EPR methodology, providing a comprehensive framework for enhancing classroom climates

and promoting student well-being.

Positive health outcomes in studies of mindfulness-based interventions among people with cancer: A systematic

review and meta-analysis

Badaghi Nasim

, Buskbjerg Cecilie

, Kwakkenbos Linda

3,4

, Bosman Sabien

, Zachariae Robert

, Speckens Anne

Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center,

Unit for Psycho-Oncology & Health Psychology, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University,

Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center,

Department of Clinical Psychology, Behavioural Science Institute

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have been employed with cancer patients and survivors for symptom alleviation and

reduction, but little is known about the effects of MBIs on positive health outcomes. We therefore conducted a systematic

review and meta- analysis to (a) identify and describe positive health outcomes used in MBIs in cancer and (b) explore the

pooled effects of MBIs on positive health outcomes. We identied 94 independent studies, which had investigated eight diffe-

rent positive health outcome domains (mindfulness skills, self-compassion, positive states, coping, social support, well-being,

personal growth/meaning, and spirituality). The most frequently investigated positive health outcomes were mindfulness skills

(K=31), self-compassion (K=9), and positive states (K=4). In 48 independent randomized controlled trials, statistically signi-

cant effects were observed for all eight positive health outcomes at post-treatment. Effect sizes ranged from small (well-being;

Hedges’s g = 0.27) to medium (coping, g = 0.61). At follow-up, the domains of mindfulness skills, self-compassion, personal

growth/meaning, and spirituality reached statistical signicance, with effect sizes ranging from small (well-being; g = 0.13) to

medium (spirituality; g = 0.61). An exception was the large effect size (g = 1.40) observed for personal growth/meaning. The

results demonstrated statistically signicant effects of MBIs on a number of positive outcomes in cancer patients and survi-

vors. Although the clinical signicance of the results remain unclear, MBIs may play a key role in improving the quality of life

of people with cancer.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Positive interdependence and empowerment in an inclusive education context with the promotion of strengths-

based tools

Bressoud Nicolas

, Samson Andrea C.

, Gay Philippe

, Audrin Catherine

, Lucciarini Elena

, Shankland Rebecca

Valais University of Teacher Education

Inclusive education is growing rapidly, and policies are in place to promote it. However, the conditions for its successful imple-

mentation in the classroom remain a challenge. Strengths-based interventions are a promising approach. However, they are

well documented in traditional educational settings, and their mechanisms in inclusive contexts remain understudied.

The purpose of this presentation is to explore the development of positive interdependence - cooperative relationships among

students - and empowerment - students’ self-condence and autonomy - through strengths-based tools derived from the “In-

dividual Strengths, Collective Power!” program in inclusive contexts.

The study involved 179 students, ages 8-12, divided into either an experimental group or an active control group. Positive

interdependence and empowerment were assessed before and after the intervention using students’ qualitative descriptions

of classroom relationships and the use of strengths-based vocabulary in student discourse. Analytical rigor was ensured by

applying cumulative linked mixed models and ANOVA to the collected data.

Results suggest that while positive classroom relationships showed minimal change, there was a signicant shift in student

discourse in both groups, indicating a move toward strengths-based communication.

This research marks a signicant milestone in the understanding of relational dynamics in inclusive classrooms. It demonstra-

tes that strengths-based tools can have a signicant impact on students’ perceptions. The ndings offer promising support

for fostering a classroom climate conducive to inclusive practices. Further research on the impact on student relationships is

warranted.

Positive Psychology Interventions to Promote Resilience and Well-being Among Educators: A Scoping Review

Tomlin Luke

1,2

, Budden Timothy

1,2

, Simpson Aaron

1,2

, Kingdon Travis

1,2

, Jeftic Ivan

, Dimmock James

, Norsworthy Cameron

, Jackson Ben

1,2

School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), University of Western Australia, Perth,

Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia,

Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville

Background: Combating educator burnout and turnover in schools by promoting resilience and well-being is critical. Positive

psychology interventions (PPIs) are popular approaches in school settings for enhancing educator well-being and resilience.

However, we lack insight regarding how educator resilience and well-being focused PPIs are implemented in practice.

Aims: We systematically examined PPIs targeting well-being and resilience among educators implemented in school-settings,

outcomes of PPI interventions, and factors affecting program implementation and effectiveness.

Methods: We searched health databases for randomized and non-randomized intervention studies, between 2000-2022.

We present a narrative synthesis of our results accompanied with a summary of tools for practitioners to promote successful

program implementation.

Results: 159 reports were included (comprising 83 quantitative, 33 qualitative and 43 mixed-method studies) with multi-com-

ponent and mindfulness interventions as the most popular approaches. Results indicated that researchers emphasize inter-

ventions that develop prosocial and self-regulatory skills to promote wellbeing and resilience in educators. Qualitative ndings

suggest successful program implementation should consider more ‘whole-school’ approaches that actively involve faculty staff

in the program creation process.

Conclusion: Our ndings collate the extant intervention research and highlight program characteristics currently used by

health promotion programmers to promote wellbeing and resilience in educators. We encourage future work to conduct more

high-quality RCTs and longitudinal studies that integrate school-wide approaches, to clarify the processes that may lead to

lasting program outcomes.

OSF registration: https://osf.io/txck8/

Positive self-perception in social media – a quantitative evaluation of a brief positive- psychological intervention for

female users.

Reinartz Fiona

, Pilger Saskia

, Olbrecht Meike

FOM University of Applied Sciences, Germany

Background: Social media has a signicant impact on users’ self-perception. In particular, the ideal images conveyed on the

respective platforms can have negative effects on the self. Self-perception in social media in combination with positive psycho-

logy has been unexplored. Since women are more heavily affected by these negative effects than men, this study exclusively

focuses on female users.

Aims: The aim of this study was to design a brief positive-psychological intervention for the target group and to evaluate

whether it can enhance the application of positive psychology techniques, self-perception (self-efcacy expectations, self-es-

teem, body image, mindfulness) and ourishing and reduce the desire for idealized self-presentation.

Method: The study utilized a 2x2 quasi-experimental pre-post design with a comparison group. 97 female social media users

took part in the study, NTG = 47, NCG = 50. Data was collected through standardized online questionnaires. Mixed ANOVA

and paired t-tests were used to analyze the data.

Results: Signicant interaction effects were found for the application of positive psychology techniques (η_p^2 = .19), self-

perception (index value) (η_p^2 = .09), body image (η_p^2 = .07) and self-esteem (η_p^2 = .07). The strongest effects in the

mean comparison were identied for positive psychology techniques (d = 0.87) and self-perception (index value) (d = 0.54).

No effects were found for ourishing, self-presentation, self-efcacy expectation and mindfulness.

Conclusion: The intervention demonstrated efcacy in fostering a stronger connection to oneself among users. The study

discusses potential reasons for the lack of signicance in certain variables and suggests avenues for further exploration.

Positive Technology: A journey into a Virtual Reality room for Peak Performance and Flourishing

Maclaurin Catherine

Conservatorium High School, NSW Department of Education and Training 2000 Sydney

Background: There are numerous Positive Psychology Interventions that have been widely tested and validated Scientically.

Some have been meta-analyzed and have been shown to have a signicant impact on Wellbeing. However, there is minimal

research on utilizing Virtual Reality to assist performers to access the “Flow State” for peak performance and ourishing. Flow

Theory, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (Nakamura & Csikszentmihalyi, 2020) is closely aligned with optimal human functioning along

with creativity, peak-experience and self- actualization. The ability for performers to access and maintain a “Flow State” is an

important tool for performers and creatives, assisting with creativity, divergent thinking, relaxation and increasing neuroplas-

ticity (Van Heerden, 2010).

This workshop is based on the joint collaboration between the UNSW Art, Design and Architecture, University of New South

Wales, Sydney, and Sydney University’s Conservatorium of Music High School. Scientia Professor, Jill Bennett, Australian Re-

search Council Laureate Fellow, Felt Experience & Empathy Lab (fEEL) and Director, Big Anxiety Research Centre (BARC).

Please see link to the Dig Anxiety Research Centre (BARC)

Big Anxiety Research Centre | Arts, Design & Architecture - UNSW Sydney

The World premiere of two new virtual reality works exploring mental health and healing from Aboriginal perspectives. Jill Ben-

nett’s groundbreaking work with Aboriginal communities and healing intergenerational trauma utilizing Virtual Reality.

The aim of this workshop will be to provide an experiential glimpse into a Virtual Reality room where participants will experien-

ce a Positive Psychology Intervention through utilising VR goggles.

Method: The facilitator will take participants through a Virtual Reality room where they will have the opportunity to engage in a

Positive Psychology Intervention designed to give them the experience of the “Flow state” as performers, utilizing the process

of “Posttraumatic Growth” to overcome performance anxiety while promoting Peak Performance and Flourishing.

Results: Participants will experience a Positive Psychology Intervention through a Virtual Reality program designed to promote

Peak Performance and Flourishing.

Conclusion: The workshop will be highly experiential and interactive. Participants will leave with an understanding of how to

implement PPI’s utilizing Virtual Reality.

Potentiating Allied Character Strengths: Gratitude and Compassion

Gulliford Liz

Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues, School of Education, Birmingham

Background: This pilot study tested the theory that two virtues linked by a common core of benevolence mutually reinforce

one another. Gulliford and Roberts (2018) proposed that the common core of the virtues of the ‘allocentric quintet’ (generosity,

gratitude, forgiveness, compassion, and humility) lies in benevolence: cultivating one of the virtues within this cluster directly,

indirectly promotes the others through strengthening this shared core.

Aims: This study tested whether promoting gratitude or compassion specically would not only strengthen the target virtue, but

would also indirectly promote the other, based on hypothesized relationships between these allied virtues.

Method: In a ve-week school-based study, 11–13-year-olds participated in an intervention focused on learning about com-

passion or gratitude, along with exercises designed to promote one or the other virtue. Mind-maps gauged participants’

conceptual understanding of gratitude or compassion pre- and post-intervention. Self-reported gratitude and empathy were

assessed using GQ6 (2002) and QCAE (2011).

Results: 129 pupils (M = 11 years, 7 months, 50.4% female) returned pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. Gratitude

scores increased after the gratitude intervention. Girls’ scores on the GQ6 signicantly increased from a mean of 31.1 to 36.6.

Boys’ scores increased from 32.5 to 33.3. Gratitude scores also increased in students who participated in the compassion

intervention: boys’ GQ6 scores increased from 31 to 34.6 while girls’ scores increased from 32.2 to 36.6.

Conclusion: Findings offer partial support for the hypothesis that interventions to promote compassion may increase gratitude

as a ‘side effect’. This will be discussed alongside study limitations.

Practical Application of the “Me, We, Us” Model to Drive Employee engagement and Leadership Development

Kaur Manjit

AllGreenTech International Pte Ltd

This proposed oral presentation focuses on one segment of a larger project that was designed to involve the entire workforce

of a Malaysian-based SMR to “co-create” the future, using Positive Psychology principles, with outcomes linked business

excellence indicators.

The project was aimed at helping this SME organization address leadership development and employee engagement through

Positive Psychology approaches.

While project activities incorporated initiatives that stimulate human ourishing based on teamwork criteria and authentic

leadership characteristics, this particular segment focused on the formation of “afnity groups” for the “take action” component

of the project.

This “take-action” component utilised Jarden’s “Me, We and Us” model (2015), with the intention to further strengthen inter and

intra team collaboration for better business outcomes.

Team participation in the afnity groups utilized elements of the Self-Determination Theory (Deci and Ryan, 2000).

The project’s evaluation criteria employed Kirkpatrick’s Model of Evaluation (Kirkpatrick and Kirkpatrick, 2007), Phillip’s Return

on Investment methodology (Phillip, 2012).

The “take action” segment utilised business excellence measurements based on the Singapore Quality Award (Calingo, 1997).

This measures business outcomes based on scientic and behavioral approaches.

Note: The project was initially designed as an artefact for my Masters in Applied Positive Psychology (Anglia Ruskin Univer-

sity)nal year project. I have since implemented the approaches contained within the project back at my business. The “take

action” component continues to yield encouraging and interesting results.

Practical Wisdom and the VIA-IS - A preliminary study on the situational use of character strengths in the teaching

profession

Berend Benjamin

University of Trier

Background: An intervention on the situational use of character strengths (VIA-IS) was conducted with undergraduate stu-

dents (N = 213). The intervention involved the creative use of one or two personal character strengths in three conditions over

a period of two weeks.

Aims: Recent works (Han 2018, Miller 2018) discuss the lack of practical wisdom (phronesis) in the VIA-IS approach. The aim

of the study was to investigate the practical considerations and decisions made by the test subjects when using the VIA-IS.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

In a next step, these ndings are to be supplemented by follow-up studies on practical wisdom of prospective teachers and

enrich university teacher training with regard to the eld of personality development.

Methods: Practical wisdom was operationalized as knowledge of the appropriate means to achieve virtuous ends in a given

situation. In a qualitative investigation (after Mayring 2015) the participants reported on their experiences with this type of

deliberation in using strengths of character in everyday life.

Results: In all three conditions, phronetic difculties emerged with regard to context-appropriate action. These were structured

and explicated by means of qualitative analysis. There were no signicant group differences in terms of practical wisdom.

Discussion: The discussion of the ndings is based on two current discourses: First, the role of practical wisdom in VIA-IS.

Second, the Hattie (2014) oriented discourse on the crucial factor teacher personality. Theoretical and practical implications of

phronesis will be explored in as differentiated a way as possible.

Quantitative evaluation of a positive psychological intervention to promote well-being in best agers

Strieer Vanessa

, Pilger Saskia

, Olbrecht Thomas

FOM Hochschule Bonn

Background: Occupational stress, a source of negative strain leading to physical and emotional exhaustion, disproportionately

affects best agers (individuals over 50 years of age). This study addresses this issue by developing and implementing a posi-

tive-psychological intervention based on the Positive Self-Management model by Braun et al. (2017).

Aims: The study aims to determine whether the application of positive psychology techniques along with a focus on vitality,

optimism and self-efcacy can effectively reduce depressive moods and irritations while improving the overall well-being of

working best agers.

Method: Using a 2x2 pre-post design with a randomized control group, the intervention involved 94 working best agers, with

data collected through standardized online questionnaires at four-week intervals. Analysis utilized variance analysis with

mixed ANOVA and t-tests.

Results: The treatment group (N = 45) showed signicant improvements in self-management skills, mental strength and long-

term well- being compared to the control group (N = 49). Strong intervention effects were observed particularly for applications

of positive psychology techniques (η_p^2 = .17), vitality (η_p^2 = .76), self-management skills total (η_p^2 = .14) and well-

being (η_p^2 = .32). The strongest effect in the comparison of means within the treatment group and between the measure-

ment times was shown by the applications of positive psychology techniques (d = 1.00).

Conclusion: To conclude, the positive-psychological intervention proved to be highly effective for best agers with signicant

improvements in self-management skills and overall well-being. The detailed discussion of the study includes theoretical foun-

dations, methodological approaches and potential implications for research and practice.

Reducing Photo Investment Through An Online Self-Compassion Intervention: A Controlled Study Among Young

Adult Females

Di Natale Anna Flavia

, Bologni Alice

, Cuccì Gaia

, Villani Daniela

Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan,

Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CRIdee, Milan

Background: The relationship between social media usage and body image has become a critical issue among young adults.

Photo Investment (PI), in particular, is a phenomenon describing an individual’s concern over the quality and portrayal of their

photos on social media, often leading to body dissatisfaction and excessive social comparison. In this context, fostering Self-

Compassion (SC)—the practice of treating oneself with kindness and acceptance, rather than self-judging and self-criticizing

during challenges—could be benecial in enhancing body satisfaction and minimizing PI.

Aims: This study explores the effectiveness of an online SC enhancement intervention in improving SC levels and reducing

PI among young adult females.

Method: A sample of 28 young adult females participated in a 3-week online SC intervention, while a control group of 25

females was wait-listed. Each week, participants completed one meditation and one exercise for all SC themes (week 1: self-

kindness; week 2: common humanity awareness; week 3: mindfulness). The study employed online questionnaires to assess

changes in SC and PI levels before and after the intervention.

Results: The intervention signicantly increased SC levels, especially in the self-kindness and self-judgement sub-scales, and

decreased PI among participants in the experimental group compared to the control group, demonstrating the efcacy of the

SC intervention.

Conclusion: The ndings highlight the potential of online SC interventions in increasing SC and decreasing PI. These results

suggest promising approaches for improving mental well-being and altering social media behaviours in young adult females.

Relationships among meaning in life, religiosity and life satisfaction in families of people with disabilities

Platsidou Maria

, Kartasidou Lefkothea

, Petridou Angeliki

University of Macedonia,

Educator

Meaning in life and religiosity have been found to be positively associated with life satisfaction in people with disabilities

(PWDs) or their family members. The present study examines whether the presence of meaning and/or the search for meaning

mediate the relationship between religiosity (i.e., religious beliefs and participation) and life satisfaction (i.e., “satisfaction with

personal/emotional life”, “feeling of belonging” and “satisfaction with life goals”) reported by members of families with PWDs.

The participants (N = 101) reported higher levels of presence of meaning than search for meaning, moderate levels of reli-

giosity and quite high levels of life satisfaction. The presence of meaning correlated higher than the search for meaning with

almost all the subscales examined. Results largely conrmed our hypothesis that meaning in life signicantly mediates the

relationship of religiosity with life satisfaction experienced by family members of PWDs. In particular, the presence of meaning

(but not the search for meaning) was found to be a strong mediating variable in the relationship between belief in God/a higher

power and overall life satisfaction, as well as its dimensions “satisfaction with personal/emotional life”, “feeling of belonging”

and “satisfaction with life goals”. In contrast, the presence of meaning did not mediate the relationship between participating

in religious practices and being satised with life. These ndings may be helpful to mental health professionals in supporting

families with PWDs.

Seasons of Life in Action: The Development of the Tree of Life Metaphor within a Faith- Based Paradigm for Explor-

ing Meaningful Harmony and Balance

Hasan Sumaera

Buckinghamshire New University

Background: Third wave Positive Psychology (PP) advocates for a wider consideration of wellbeing from broadening studies

across both methodology and scope. Examples of such possibilities include researching wellbeing across varying contexts

and cultures, as identied by Lomas et al (2021) and potentially addressing the systems in place to facilitate ourishing (Kern

et al, 2021), which has the possibility to advocate for wider global wellbeing.

Aims: This study sought to engage in third wave PP via the exploration of a faith-based paradigm, specically through an

Islamic Framework of Positive Psychology, researching its potential value within a global and context specic scenario, cur-

rently an under- researched area within PP.

Method: A narrative literature review was conducted to understand the components that could feature within an Islamic Fra-

mework of wellbeing. A hermeneutic analysis was applied to the literature review, with considerations around the reexivity

and application of the hermeneutic circle to enhance the iterative development of understanding of the topic throughout the

literature review.

Results: The ndings identied the importance of the spiritual component that featured a combination of relationships between

nature, the self, other human beings and God. This emphasised the importance of balance and harmony across the dimensi-

ons in maintaining these meaningful relationships and was symbolised using the tree of life as an illustrative metaphor.

Conclusion: Islamic Psychology has a potential role in line with the premise of the third wave. In addition, this research encou-

rages wider research into the concept of balance and harmony across different faiths and cultures within PP.

Serious Leisure’s contribution to integral human development in nursing home care

D`Araujo Maria Alexandra

, Silva Nunes Maria Vânia

Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Portuguesa. Fellow Researcher no Programa de Pós-Doutoramento em Desenvolvimen-

to Humano Integral. Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Saúde, Portugal.,

Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Saúde, Por-

tugal.

Background: Interventions aiming to promote and operationalize the concept of integral human development (IHD), particu-

larly in the eld of ageing, are still lacking. We present a pilot training project in Serious Leisure (SL) for professionals in the

eld of ageing, to promote IHD in elderly people in the context of institutionalisation. The training sessions have a practical

and theoretically orientated approach and the relationship between the concepts and different themes associated with it are

addressed (e.g.:, positive psychology, spirituality, empathy, leadership). Dynamics and pedagogical resources were speci-

cally developed for this purpose.

Aims: To contribute to a greater understanding towards SL in old age, in professional practice and in IHD promotion for

those involved. Method: This is a 30-hour face-to-face training programme, aimed at different professionals, regardless their

position/academic degree. Sample: 10 institutions and 87 professionals from Portugal. After the training a focus group was

conducted. We present part of a larger research project ongoing.

Results: (Focus Group) All the participants perceived gains e.g.: personal/interpersonal (“improved relationships between

colleagues through knowledge and sharing of opinions (...)”; professional practice (”the awareness that I have to think”);

perception of the elderly person: “think (…) that the activity serves to make that person feel full. An integral person”, and the

discovery of SL as “an absolute novelty”.

Conclusion: The programme is relevant to promoting the concept of IHD in the different stakeholders, with the potential to

impact care practices, in care facilities.

South African University Students’ Experience of a 6-week Character Strengths Program

Abrahams Sean

, Campbell Anita L.

Department of Student Affairs, University of Cape Town,

Academic Support Programme for Engineering; Centre for Research in Engineering Education, University of Cape Town

Background: Leveraging one’s character strengths is linked to improved well-being, happiness, and success in various life

aspects, including academics and relationships. While extensively studied in higher education, there is limited insight into the

character strengths of students in South African universities.

Aims: This study explores the experiences of 612 university students at the University of Cape Town enrolled in a 6-week

character

strengths program. The program aimed to help students discover and cultivate their personal strengths, and was based on the

VIA Character Strengths Model’s six virtues and 24 character strengths.

Method: The study incorporated data from 306 students who completed the VIA Strengths Survey and 55 students who partici-

pated in a program evaluation survey. The program spanned six weeks, incorporating daily messages on WhatsApp to support

the exploration of character strengths.

Results: The VIA Strengths Survey revealed “Appreciation of Beauty” as the highest strength and “Persistence” as the lowest.

Program evaluation results indicated increased self-awareness and understanding of applying character strengths. Daily mes-

sages on WhatsApp were reported as benecial, promoting overall well-being. These ndings empirically support the positive

impact of the character strengths program.

Conclusion: The study contributes to understanding character strengths among South African university students, contributing

valuable

insights for educators, counsellors, and institutions seeking to support the holistic growth of students, and aligning with the

broader global research on character strengths and well-being in higher education.

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It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Status of Flourishing among Indian Emerging Adults

Bang Amrut

1,2

, Dhadse Prathmesh

, Pidurkar Aditi

, Jamsandekar Jui

, Burde Gajanan

Society for Education, Action and Research in Community Health,

Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited

Emerging Adults (18 to 28 years) comprise 22% of India’s population (261 million people). There has to be an understanding

of what is their present status of ourishing.

NIRMAN, a program committed to nurturing prosocial purpose among the emerging adults in India, has developed a compre-

hensive ourishing framework. We developed an online questionnaire based on the framework to assess the status of ouris-

hing among the Indian emerging adults and circulated it through our website and social media. The questionnaire consisted of

total 50 statements across 7 different domains of ourishing including Physical Health, Psychological Well-Being, Character

Development, Social Relationships, Professional Development, Life Skills and Social Contribution. Each statement had to be

scored on a Likert-type scale with 6 possible responses. Out of the 1672 responses received between June 2021 to March

2022, we analyzed 1431 entries that were in the age range of 18 to 29 years. Respondents (N=1431) included 51% males and

49% females; mean age was 22.24 years (SD = 2.82 years); 61% were students, 16% were employed or doing business, 20%

were preparing for next educational or professional exams and 3% were unemployed.

The lowest percentage of ourishing was in the domain of Professional Development (45.91%) whereas the highest was in the

domain of Physical Health (71.56%). Across various domains, on an average just more than half of the candidates (57.08%)

were ourishing.

The present study presents the ourishing status for Indian emerging adults for the rst time.

Strengthening the future: A resilience intervention for youth

Janapati Gayathri

, Vijayalakshmi V

Department of Management Studies, Indian Institute of Technology Madras

Background: India’s youth bulge (18-24 years), an irreplaceable asset for the country’s development, faces various challenges

due to the transformative socio-economic environment. It becomes crucial to enable and prepare them to positively adapt to

these circumstances by relying on their internal positive personality traits —character strengths (CS).

Aims: Guided by a cognitive-behavioural framework rooted in Polk’s resilience theory, this study aimed to investigate the

impact of character strengths intervention (CSI) on cognitive exibility (CF) and resilience.

Method: A multi-method approach with cross-sectional and longitudinal designs was employed.

Results: Study 1 (N=279) tested the relationship between CF and resilience. A good model t was achieved, and regression

analysis revealed that CF explained a statistically signicant (10.7%) proportion of variance in resilience, R2= 0.107, β= 0.481,

p < .001.

A multi-site eld CSI was conducted in Study 2 (N=130, Mage=19.55 years). The CSI modules were developed by synthe-

sising and integrating existing practices, incorporating elements of cinematherapy with culturally relevant positive psycholo-

gy movie examples. Signicant differences were found between the experimental (n=80) and control (n=50) groups on CF

(η2p=.11) and resilience (η2p=.08). Additionally, CF signicantly mediated the effect of CSI on resilience.

Conclusion: Elucidating the essential role of CF, this study contributes to the evolving research on the cognitive factors that

enable resilience. The framework mobilises efforts in this eld towards a unifying theory of resilience. The activities and techni-

ques from CSI were found to enable students to deploy their CS exibly in various facets of their lives and maximise resource

utilisation.

Strengths of Sharing, Strengths of Deception: A Behavioural Examination

Freidlin Pavel

, Littman-Ovadia Hadassah

, Elaad Eitan

Ariel University

Background: Character strengths (CS) are positive personal traits, expressed behaviourally, cognitively, and emotionally.

While CS criteria explicitly suggest they bear moral value and are non-diminishing to the self and others, studies examining

their role in actual prosocial or moral behaviour appears to be lacking.

Aims: Provide initial behavioural validation to CS role in actual prosocial behaviour. CS of self-regulation, fairness, modesty,

kindness and love were examined.

Method: Participants (N = 149) self-reported on their CS and engaged in a resource sharing task that allowed for deception

and encouraged prot maximization, at the expense of supposed game partners. Prosocial behaviour was recorded as the

tendency to achieve fair sharing of resources and as participants’ tendency to engage in deception.

Results: Fairness was related to one’s striving for equal sharing of points (r=.19, p < .05), while the degree of deception was

related to the CS of fairness (r=.17, p < .05) and modesty (r=.15, p < .05).

Among deceptive individuals the CS of love (r=.27, p < .01), fairness (r=.21, p < .05) and modesty (r=.29, p < .01) were related

to equal sharing. Among non-deceptives equal sharing is inversely related to self-regulation (r= -.23, p < .05) and modesty (r=

-.29, p < .05), contributing to greater prot-maximization.

Conclusion: CS are related to different types of prosocial behaviour. Further, CS appear to play a balancing role, helping indivi-

duals that engage in antisocial behaviour to achieve their goals without diminishing others, and keeping those that are initially

prosocial from diminishing themselves.

Supporting Teachers’ Mental Health through Schoolwide Positive Psychology Practices Targeting PERMA-H

Suldo Shannon M.

, Shum Kai Z.

, Von Der Embse Nathaniel

University of Tennessee- Knoxville,

University of South Florida

Background: Teachers experience high levels of stress, leading to burnout and attrition, and negatively impacting student

behavior and educational outcomes (Herman et al., 2018). There is minimal research surrounding ways to reduce stress AND

improve well-being.

Aims: We will describe a university-school partnership throughout the 2020-21 school year, enacted to provide positive mental

health supports to foster educator well-being. We will summarize the content, activities, and assessment strategies utilized,

and change in teacher mental health throughout the professional development (PD).

Method: This case study included 76 educators in an inner-city public elementary school in the U.S. The 15-week PD series

helped teachers develop uency with positive activities addressing Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning/

Purpose, Accomplishment, and Health (PERMA-H) targets through personal use and reection. The PD used didactic training

sessions, peer collaboration, self-directed activities, and job-embedded coaching. Teacher well-being was monitored through

individual assessment of psychological and occupational well-being before each of ve didactic workshops; teachers received

private score reports.

Results: Analysis of individual growth curves indicated statistically signicant increases in educator life satisfaction (t= 3.68,

p < .001) and ourishing (t= 2.03, p= 0.047), and reductions in stress (t= -2.86, p < .01) over the course of the PD. In a post-

intervention acceptability survey, mean levels of acceptability were highest for didactic workshops, and also positive for team-

based discussions and individual coaching.

Conclusions. Attendees will learn an evidence-based framework for monitoring teachers’ complete mental health, and pro-

fessional learning that includes positive psychology practices that foster teachers’ positive mental health. teacher well-being;

positive psychology interventions; positive education.

Tackling social disconnection: An umbrella review of RCT-based interventions targeting social isolation and

loneliness

Hansen Thomas

1,2

, Bang Nes Ragnhild

1,2

, Sevenius Nilsen Thomas

Norwegian Institute of Public Health,

University of Oslo

Background: Social isolation and loneliness are urgent public health concerns associated with negative physical and mental

health outcomes. Understanding effective remedies is crucial in addressing these problems.

Objectives: To synthesize and critically appraise scientic evidence on the effectiveness of social isolation and loneliness

interventions overall and across subgroups. We focused on systematic reviews (SRs) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods: We searched seven databases (June 2022 and updated June 2023) and supplemented the search with grey litera-

ture and reference screening to identify SRs published since 2017. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using

the AMSTAR2 tool were conducted independently by author pairs, with disagreements resolved through discussion.

Findings: We included 29 SRs, 16 with meta-analysis and 13 with narrative synthesis. All SRs focused on loneliness, with 12

additionally examining social isolation. Four SRs focused on young people, 11 on all ages, and 14 on older adults. The most

frequently examined intervention types were social (social contact, social support), psychological (therapy, psychoeducation,

social skills training), and digital (e.g., computer use and online support). Meta-analyses indicated small-to-moderate bene-

cial effects, while narrative synthesis demonstrated mixed or no effect. Social interventions for social isolation and psycholo-

gical interventions for loneliness were the most promising. However, caution is warranted due to the effects’ small magnitude,

signicant heterogeneity, and the variable quality of SRs. Digital and other interventions showed mixed or no effect; however,

caution is advised in interpreting these results due to the highly diverse nature of the interventions studied.

Conclusion: This overview of SRs shows small to moderate effectiveness of social interventions in reducing social isolation

and psychological ones in tackling loneliness. Further rigorously conducted RCTs and SRs are needed to guide policy de-

cisions regarding the implementation of efcacious and scalable interventions. Evaluation should focus on both preventive

structural interventions and tailored mitigating strategies that address specic types and causes of loneliness.

Teaching happiness to students – implementation and evaluation of a program aiming at promoting well-being in

elementary schools

Rahm Tobias

TU Braunschweig - IPP

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of mental disorders in children and adolescents has increased

signicantly. Evidence shows that childhood mental disorders can have serious consequences on psychosocial, cognitive, and

physical development. Approaches from Positive Education go further than the urgently needed prevention of mental disor-

ders by aiming directly at promoting subjective, psychological, and social well-being. The present study describes the imple-

mentation of a brief program to promote well-being in 15 elementary schools. For this purpose, in a regular university seminar,

students of teaching and educational science were instructed to give 11 ”happiness lessons“ for fourth graders in a team of

two and in the presence of the class teacher over the course of three months. Quantitative data were collected from children

and parents in the treatment group classes and in the parallel classes serving as the waiting control group at four measure-

ment points (pre, post, 1- and 2-month follow-up). We assessed psychological well-being, negative emotions & moods, parent

support & home life, perception of the school environment, and self-esteem of the children with established instruments with

versions for children and their parents and the frequency of positive and negative emotions of the children in self-report only.

Additionally, we applied ad hoc items on subjective perception of the project and open questions in the treatment group. Data

were analyzed with EffectLiteR using multigroup structural equation models. Results showed a small signicant effect for ne-

gative emotions with the children’s data and a medium effect for psychological well-being in the perception of the parents at the

1-month follow-up. Interaction effects suggest that lower baseline levels in parent support & home life and self-esteem would

increase the treatment effect for these constructs. While the analysis of quantitative data shows little signicance, the answers

to satisfaction items and open questions on the perception of the program are highly positive. The need for more grounded

framework in positive education and the inclusion of more qualitative methods as well as suggestions to improve the program

in the sense of a whole-school approach are discussed.

Teaching Kindness and Compassion: An Exploratory Intervention Study to Support Young Children’s Prosocial

Skills in an Inclusive ECEC Setting

Pardon Katri

, Kuusisto Arniika

, Uusitalo Lotta

University of Helsinki

In this exploratory intervention study, the aim was to teach 5–7-year-old children prosocial skills in an inclusive Finnish early

childhood education and care (ECEC) setting. The intervention programme was based on previous studies and helps ll a gap

in how to promote prosocial behaviour in an ECEC setting encompassing children with diverse needs. The theoretical frame-

work draws on research on character strengths in the eld of positive psychology, particularly what the literature refers to as

the strengths of the heart, namely kindness and compassion. The study follows the methodological framework of pragmatism

and a mixed-methods research perspective. Research methods include questionnaires and interviews with children (n = 23),

some of their guardians (n = 8) and ECEC teachers (n = 2). The results were two-fold. With the picture-based questionnai-

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It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

re, the pre–post measures showed little advancement. However, individual interviews revealed developments in children’s

prosocial thinking that also translated into concrete actions. These ndings were further supported by the positive feedback

received from teachers and guardians. The contents of the programme can be integrated into daily, inclusive ECEC pedagogy.

Methodologically, the intervention design serves as a starting point for the further development of data collection practices that

capture children’s voices in ECEC.

The Contribution Of Empathy To Mother‘s Disintegrative Responses In The Context Of Infant Care

Taubman - Ben-Ari Orit

, Erel-Brodsky Hilit

Bar-Ilan University

Background: Maternal disintegrative responses consist of intrusive thoughts and dissociative experiences in the context of

infant care. They are perceived as highly threatening to mothers, impacting how they relate to their offspring.

Aims: Leaning on a positive psychology strengths approach, we sought to examine the contribution of maternal empathy-re-

lated components (fantasy, empathic concern, perspective-taking, personal distress), to maternal disintegrative responses

among mothers to infants.

Method: First, a clinical case study demonstrating maternal disintegrative responses was analyzed to gain insights to this

phenomenon. Then, 405 Israeli mothers, whose child was 1-12 months old, gave their informed consent to participate and

completed self-report measures tapping empathy, maternal disintegrative responses, and demographic characteristics.

Results: Higher empathic concern was associated with less dissociative experiences, whereas higher levels of the empathy

components of fantasy and personal distress contributed to greater intrusive thoughts and dissociative experiences. Parity

moderated the association between empathy and maternal disintegrative responses.

Conclusions: The study expands the understanding of the importance of empathy and its role in maternal disintegrative res-

ponses in infant care. Moreover, it emphasizes that empathy is a complex concept, which has aspects that contribute to the

mother-infant dyad, but in parallel, consists of other aspects (identication and merging with the infant) which may elicit dis-

integrative responses in the mother. The ndings may raise professionals’ awareness to disintegrative responses of mothers,

especially with their rst offspring, and highlight the complex role of empathy.

The Effect of Everyday Inner Conicts on Well-being

Nir Dina

Ono Academic college

Decisions are made to enhance the well-being of the decision-maker. However, people often struggle to choose between

opposing alternatives before reaching decisions. This agonizing deliberation termed inner conict was central to psychological

theories of the early 20th century, however today the phenomenology of inner conict is largely absent from decision, paradox,

and dilemma theories. We revisit the concept of inner conict and show its ongoing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral inu-

ence on well-being. First, we dene inner conict as a state in which none of the considered alternatives is deemed sufcient to

satisfy all salient needs. Each opposing alternative (e.g., for asking for a raise, and against asking for a raise) can satisfy only

some needs but not others. Second, we put forward an inner conict theory proposing that (a) people experience an ongoing

and wide range of inner conicts over their lifespan, from mundane to life-changing. (b) these inner conicts focus one’s at-

tention on various needs and interests and evoke both non-specic (e.g., distress) and unique emotions (e.g., feeling torn),

(c) processing inner conict follows known strategies of negotiation, including coercive (either-or) versus integrative (and-and)

strategies, and (d) the chosen strategy has a predictable effect on well-being—the more integrative, the higher the well-being,

and the lower the regret and procrastination. We conclude that inner conict theory can help navigate inner conicts over

one’s lifespan and support well-being by better understanding, befriending, and managing the challenges and opportunities

that arise when people are of two minds.

The Ethical Path to Wellbeing

Young Tarli

Social Identity and Groups Network, the School of Psychology, The University of Queensland

Background: Ethics was once routinely espoused by philosophers as central to well-being, but it remains an underexamined

pathway within wellbeing science.

Aim: This project aims to examine the impact of ethical on wellbeing from an empirical perspective.

Methods: The research includes three studies. Study 1 involved 181 participants undertaking a cross-sectional survey with

wellbeing scales and measures around ethical clarity. Study 2 was and experimental paradigm where 356 participants were

randomly allocated to either the experimental condition (where they visually constructed their own ethical framework) or to a

control group. Study 3 was a randomized waitlist control trial assessing the wellbeing impacts of an ethics training intervention.

Results: In Study 1, we found a signicant positive association between ethical framework clarity and well-being—a relation-

ship mediated by the extent to which having a clear ethical framework helped participants to make sense of the world (coher-

ence). In Study 2 we did not nd a main effect of condition, but we replicated the ndings of Study 1, and we also found that

participants who initially reported lower ethical framework clarity reported signicantly higher well-being after receiving the

ethical framework prime compared to the control group. In Study 3 we found that completing the ethical training intervention

led to increased wellbeing

Conclusions: This is the rst study we know of that empirically demonstrates the relationship between ethics and wellbeing.

This has practical implications regarding the wellbeing effects of ethics trainings and can inform well-being theory—bringing

ethics into well-being science.

The Good Life Network: A Value-Based Approach to Wellbeing

Liu Jinrui

, Bang Nes Ragnhild

, Røysamb Espen

, Vittersø Joar

University of Oslo,

The Arctic University of Norway

Background: Both scholars and policy makers have increasingly become interested in how individuals can lead a good life.

However, the majority of these efforts are merely focused on subjective wellbeing or life satisfaction. This construct may repre-

sent a limited conception of wellbeing as a whole, and does not align with what people themselves seem to consider important

in their lives. Recent advances in the wellbeing eld advocate a new analytical approach: network analyses. This approach

investigates relationships between wellbeing indicators without assuming any delineated subdomains, honoring the highly

clustered and interconnected nature of wellbeing domains. Yet, again, the work of this emerging eld only includes a small

subset of relevant wellbeing indicators and are mostly aimed at subjective wellbeing.

Aims: Therefore, we extend this line of research by including a comprehensive set of wellbeing indicators. More importantly,

we adopt a value-based approach to wellbeing, i.e., measure ideas about the good life based on what people report to nd

important in such a life. Method: Specically, we will conduct network analyses with items related to life satisfaction, positive

affect, negative affect, social relationships, competence, morality, meaning/purpose, health, security, and freedom/autonomy

using European Social Survey data.

Results & Conclusion: While the study is currently ongoing, our approach will allow us to observe how a wide variety of well-

being indicators are related to each other and provide novel insights in the constituents of what we call The Good Life Network.

In doing so, we seek to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of wellbeing and its interconnected, value-laden nature.

The How-to Parenting Program : A randomized controlled trial evaluating its impact on need-supportive parenting

behaviors

Mageau Genevieve A.

, Joussemet Mireille

, Robichaud Jean-Michel

, Larose Marie-Pier

Université de Montréal,

Université de Moncton,

University of Turku

Background: Self-determination theory research shows that supporting children’s basic psychological needs for autonomy,

competence, and relatedness promotes their development and psychological health (Joussemet et al., 2008). However, most

evidence-based parenting programs only include behaviors that can actively support two of the three psychological needs (re-

latedness and autonomy or relatedness and competence; Bunting, 2004). The How-to Parenting Program (Faber & Mazlish,

2000) stands in contrast to these programs in teaching behaviors that can support all three psychological needs. Its efcacy,

however, remains poorly documented.

Aims: The goal of this study was thus to assess the impact of the How-to Parenting Program on key need-supportive parenting

behaviors, namely autonomy support, afliation, and structure. We expected all three parenting behaviors to improve after

program participation.

Method: A total of 293 parents, recruited in elementary schools, participated in a randomized controlled trial. In each school,

parents randomized to the experimental group (How-to condition) received the program immediately, while others received it

14 months later (waitlist condition). Parents reported on their parenting behaviors at pre- and post-intervention as well as at

six- and twelve-month follow-ups.

Results: Multilevel analyses showed that parents in the How-to condition reported more autonomy support than parents in the

waitlist condition at post-intervention and, for those with lower baseline scores on afliation or structure, more afliation, and

(potentially) structure, respectively. Post-intervention differences remained stable over one year.

Conclusion: Results suggest that the How-to Parenting Program could yield long-term improvements in parents’ need-sup-

portive behaviors, ultimately fostering children’s development and psychological adjustment.

The Impact of Automated Coaching on Daily Experiences at Work

Dust Scott

University of Cincinnati

The workplace coaching industry continues to grow, and much of this growth is happening through technology-based applicati-

ons that are designed to enhance coaching accessibility and scalability. Despite the increasing adoption of these technological

innovations among practitioners, we have little understanding of the theoretical mechanisms by which these technologies

impact coachees. Further, rigorous research examining the outcomes of these applications is lacking. This study focused

specically on automated coaching, a nascent but growing type of coaching program that allows users to access customized

insights about themselves and their colleagues in a digital application. We applied Conservation of Resources theory (COR)

to examine how engagement in an automated coaching platform confers resources to employees on a day-to-day basis. In an

experience sampling study of 84 employed users of an automated coaching platform, we found that engagement in automated

coaching signicantly increased metacognitive activities and relational energy on a daily basis. Further, these effects spilled

over, positively inuencing next-day need for self-knowledge and positive affect, respectively. We discuss the theoretical and

practical implications of these ndings.

The impact of daily social interactions on evening mood: The role of perceived interaction positivity and diabetes

status

Mc Inerney Amy

, Matthews Mark

, Schmitz Norbert

, Deschenes Sonya

School of Psychology, University College Dublin,

School of Computer Science, University College Dublin,

Department of Population Based Medicine, University of Tübingen

Background: Long-term effects of social factors on well-being are well-established. However, daily associations between

social interactions and mood, especially in the context of diabetes, remain largely unexplored. People with diabetes face

unique health challenges, potentially inuencing their reactivity to social interactions.

Aims: To examine the impact of the number and positivity of social interactions throughout the day on that evening’s mood and

whether diabetes status has a moderating effect.

Method: Sixty-one adults (60.7% female; median age-category 50-54 years) with (52.5%) and without diabetes downloaded

the Beiwe smartphone app. Each evening for two months, participants recorded the number of social interactions experienced

that day and rated the positivity of the most positive interaction (10-point scale). They then rated their current mood (happy,

sad, stressed, angry; 10-point scale). Dynamic structural equation modelling assessed the impact of the number and percei-

ved positivity of daily interactions on that evening’s mood.

Results: Number of daily interactions was signicantly associated with evening happiness (β = 0.10, p<0.001). Positivity of

daily interactions was signicantly positively associated with happiness (β = 0.46) and negatively with sadness (β = - 0.27),

stress (β = -0.24) and anger (β = -0.24) (all p<0.001), that evening. Diabetes status moderated the impact of interaction posi-

tivity on stress (β = -0.17, p<0.05).

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Conclusion: Any protective effect of social interactions on daily negative mood may hinge more on the perceived positivity

of interactions than their sheer number. The protective effect of positive interactions on stress may be less pronounced for

individuals with diabetes.

The impact of Early Life Adversity on Mental and Physical Health: The Role of Spirituality and Forgiveness

Goldmark Julia

, Haas Ren

, Kapoor Leela

, Suchday Sonia

Pace University, NY

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), dened as traumatic events that occurred during childhood, predict mental and

physical health throughout the lifespan (CDC, 2022; Pilkington et al., 2021). The current study assessed the effects of ACEs

on physical/mental health and the mitigating effects of spiritual well-being and forgiveness. Participants (N=579; Mean Age=

19.33 years, SD =2.09; 49.2% females) at a University in New York, USA completed surveys assessing Adverse Childhood

Experiences Scale (ACEs), Self-Rated Health, Somatic symptoms, Spiritual Well-Being, Depression Symptoms, and Forgive-

ness. Results indicated that adverse childhood events predicted lower spiritual well-being, forgiveness, poorer self-reported

health, greater number of somatic symptoms and depressive symptoms in adulthood. Data from the study did not support a

moderation effect of spiritual well-being on self-reported health, somatic symptoms, and symptoms of depression. Forgiveness

did not mediate the relationship between early life adversity and somatic symptoms; however, it mediated the relationship

between early life adversity and self-reported health and depressive symptoms. These data suggest that consistent with prior

research exposure to adverse childhood experiences is a potential risk factor for mental and physical health issues later on in

life; and may hinder the development of coping skills such as spirituality and forgiveness. Spirituality suggests a connection

with a higher power/meaning and forgiveness is associated with letting go of negativity toward the transgressor. Hence forgi-

veness may mitigate effects of ACEs compared to spirituality. The potential for forgiveness as an intervention may be explored

in future studies to mitigate the long-lasting negative impact of ACEs on health.

The Impacts of Self-Development on Leaders’ Psychological Well-Being: Quasi- Experimental Longitudinal Evi-

dence in Executive Education

Yemiscigil Ayse

, Born Dana

, Arias Diego

, Ling Horace

Fordham University

There is a growing emphasis on understanding and promoting mental health and well-being in the workforce. Leaders’ well-

being can be especially important as it can spillover to shape employees’ functioning and impact organizational decisions. In

the current research, we approached self-development as a potential avenue for promoting leaders’ well-being and focused

on the executive education context to test its impact. We specically studied the short-term (two-weeks) and long-term (six-

months) impacts of self-development on leaders’ well-being in a four-week psychoeducational executive education program.

Our sample included fourteen cohorts of senior leaders participating in the program and a matched control group (N = 1,562).

We nd that over the short-term, the program had a signicant positive impact on personal growth and sense of purpose in

life, reduced stress, and increased perceived health. At the six- month follow-up, the changes largely reverted to baseline,

evidencing a treadmill model for well-being. Qualitative analyses documented the specic features of the self-development

process that were conducive for well-being and explained potential reasons why changes in well-being were sustained (or

not) as leaders returned to stressful work environments. These ndings point to self- development as a potential avenue for

fostering well-being among leaders - one of the most inuential actors in the organizations - at a time when the well-being crisis

in the workforce has signicant human and organizational costs.

The nature and importance of balance and harmony in life: New global insights from the Gallup World Poll

Lomas Tim

, Lai Alden , Diego-Rosell Pablo

, Davoodi Telli

, Padgett Noah

, Pawelski James

, Vanderweele Tyler J.

Harvard University,

New York University,

Gallup,

University of Pennsylvania

Background: The interrelated concepts of balance and harmony have been relatively neglected in wellbeing scholarship

(despite featuring in prominent notions like work-life balance). One explanation is the Western-centric nature of such scho-

larship, with balance and harmony having received less attention in the West compared to other cultures. However, aligning

with broader efforts to redress the Western-centricity of scholarship, there is now an emergent literature exploring balance

and harmony.

Aims: This paper adds to the burgeoning understanding of this topic by presenting the most comprehensive global study to

date of these concepts, involving data from the Gallup World Poll.

Methods: We focus on a new eight-item module of questions pertaining to balance and harmony – together with the associated

phenomenon of low arousal positive states – that featured in the 2022 Gallup World Poll, covering 142,601 people across 142

countries.

Results: A factor analysis generated a four-component solution, with balance differentiated from harmony, and low arousal

positive states differentiated into dimensions of stability and peace. The results further showed the relevance of these com-

ponents to wellbeing (specically, life evaluation). Conclusion: The analysis suggests this module can serve as a useful psy-

chometric scale for Balance, Harmony, Stability, and Peace – concepts which have hitherto received relatively little attention

individually and certainly collectively. This study provides a foundation and a spur for future research that can help further

elucidate the nature and importance of these vital yet elusive concepts.

The Need to Radically Reformulate Our Understanding of What Wellbeing Means as Humans

Steger Michael F.

Center for Meaning and Purpose, Colorado State University

Background: Positive psychology has both drawn on and created vast oceans of research on wellbeing, ourishing, and the

Good Life. Nearly all of this research, and nearly all of the practices that have been developed from this research, focuses on

an individual’s perceived wellbeing as the unit of analysis. The area of nature and wellbeing illustrates this trend, as well as

its inherent weakness.

Aims: This talk aims to show how an individual wellbeing-focused positive psychology has fallen short of its vision, and how

a new reformulation is needed.

Method: Reviews of published research in positive psychology will be used to demonstrate the disproportionate emphasis in

the eld on individual wellbeing as the unit of analysis. Even research on nature connectedness/nature relatedness shows

signs of this emphasis. Results: The argument will be made that while we are increasingly attentive to how nature can help

improve our individual wellbeing, we are engaged in a radically asymmetrical relationship with nature. While we seek to

harvest greater wellbeing from nature, we do little to ensure that nature will survive its relationship with us. However, if we

change our understanding of the meaning of wellbeing and engage in benecent stewardship of nature, we can establish the

virtuous cycle that is the full promise of positive psychology.

Conclusion: By growing beyond a narrow, individual wellbeing level of analysis, we can extend the eld in ways that empowers

it to strengthen both human wellbeing and the natural world that provides our necessary wellbeing resources.

The nexus of relational peace: Character strengths and wellbeing in close interpersonal bonds

Pezirkianidis Christos

1,2

Lab of Positive Psychology, Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences,

Hellenic Association of Positive Psychology

Background: Relational peace is dened as the harmonious interaction between two individuals characterized by the ex-

change of opinions, and cooperation, as well as respect, recognition, and acceptance of each other. It is a particularly un-

derstudied concept in the eld of Positive Psychology, and little is known regarding its associations with wellbeing indices and

character strengths.

Aims: This study aims to explore the relationship between peace in close interpersonal relationships, character strengths, and

both subjective and interpersonal wellbeing of adults.

Methods: This study involved a global sample of 8,000 adults (ages 18 - 75), who completed the VIA Inventory of Strengths

– Positive, the Relational Peace Scale, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, the Harmony in Life Scale, and questions regarding

close relationship demographics, quality, and satisfaction.

Results: The results indicated that peace in close interpersonal relationships is positively correlated with life satisfaction and

harmony in life, relationship satisfaction, and perceived support from the partner. Furthermore, it was found that 12 out of the

24 character strengths are related to increased levels of peace in close interpersonal relationships. However, the type and

qualitative characteristics of the close interpersonal relationship were found to play a signicant role in the aforementioned

relationship.

Conclusion: The results shed light on the benecial effects of feeling peace in close interpersonal relationships while enriching

the existing literature on the associations of character strengths with positive relational outcomes. The ndings will be discus-

sed based on the existing literature, and suggestions for their utilization in positive psychology interventions, counseling, and

psychotherapy.

The Philosophy of Happiness: A Tension Resolved

Piller Christian

University of York

At the heart of the philosophical debate concerning the nature and signicance of happiness lies the dispute between eudai-

monism in its various forms (Aristotle, Epicurus, the Stoics) and hedonism (from Bentham to Layard and Kahneman). Under-

lying the philosophical debate, I want to suggest, lies a triad of claims that, though plausible, seem to be incompatible. (1) To

be happy is to be in a psychological state. (2) In leading a happy life, one leads a life that is good in terms of personal value.

(3) There is more to a good life in terms of personal value than feeling happy. Hedonists accept (1) and (2), and deny (3).

Eudaimonistic theories think of happiness as the nal end for human beings, i.e. they accept (2). However, as a good life is

not based on smiley-face feelings (as Julia Annas has said), they deny that happiness can be captured in purely psychological

terms. Contemporary philosophers of happiness, like Dan Haybron, accept (1) and (3) but deny (2). For him, there is more that

can make a life go well than happiness, for example, achievement. In this paper, I will suggest that the conict between the

three claims can be resolved if we see happiness as an emotion that, like other emotions, has conditions of appropriateness.

Happiness needs to be appropriate to make a life go well. This explains important features of happiness, e.g. that it is best

pursued indirectly.

The positive psychology of negative affect

Botha Karel

North-West University

Although negative affect is often associated with poor mental health, evidence increasingly implicates that it may play an im-

portant role in the development of psychological well-being. This is still an underdeveloped research area, though, and many

inconsistencies in understanding the dynamics between negative affect and psychological health exist. This paper contributes

to the debate by reporting on the integrated ndings of a larger project on the cause-effect relationship between negative affect

and self-regulation. Interactive Qualitative Analysis, a multi-method approach aiming to provide a systems’ understanding of

behaviour, was applied to achieve the aims of the study. Participants (n = 263) were adults reporting negative affect in res-

ponse to one of ve adverse situations (interpersonal conict, blocked life goals, being a member of a minority racial group,

having an emotional absent father, or coping with an abortion). Results consistently show that negative affect is not merely a

challenge individuals need to overcome, but rather act as an important resource in a dynamic process of regulating one’s own

behaviour and developing resilience during adaption to adversity. The implication of the ndings for positive psychology will

be critically discussed.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

The Power of “Thank You”: Exploring the Effects of Received Gratitude on Employees’ Burnout and Basic Psycho-

logical Needs through a Multilevel Approach

Nicuta Elena Gabriela

, Opariuc-Dan Cristian

, Diaconu-Gherasim Loredana R.

, Constantin Ticu

Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi,

Ovidius University, Constanta

Background: Existing literature suggests that gratitude is a key ingredient for employees’ well-being. However, most previous

research examined the benets of feeling grateful in the workplace and fewer studies investigated the effects of receiving

gratitude.

Aims: In this study, we argued that receiving gratitude might protect employees from burnout. Specically, we hypothesized

that received gratitude at work would be related to lower exhaustion and disengagement at the between- and within-person

(day) levels and explored whether the basic psychological needs would mediate these relations. Moreover, we explored the

temporal relations between daily received gratitude and next-day burnout.

Method: A sample of 189 Romanian employees completed daily surveys during one workweek. The questionnaires assessed

the amount of gratitude participants received from their supervisor, colleagues, and beneciaries, their level of burnout, and

the satisfaction of their needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Results: Multilevel analyses indicated that received gratitude was negatively associated with burnout at the between-person

and day levels. These relations were explained by autonomy and relatedness at the between-person level and by autonomy

and competence at the day level. However, daily received gratitude did not predict next-day burnout.

Conclusion: These ndings suggest that received gratitude conveys to the employees that they are competent, valued, and in

control of their actions, which helps protect them from exhaustion and disengagement. However, in order to fully harness the

advantages of gratitude expressions, it is essential for organizations to make them a daily practice.

The relationship between 5c indicators of positive youth development, self-compassion, and well-being in adoles-

cents

Gacal Hana

, Mihic Josipa

, Novak Miranda

, Sutic Lucija

, Maglica Toni

, Rovis Darko

3,4

, Vrdoljak Gabrijela

Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Zagreb,

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Split,

Institute for Public Health of Primorje-Gorski County,

Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka,

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Osijek

The promotion of mental well-being is extremely important in adolescence, given that adolescents are particularly vulnerable

to mental health problems. Previous ndings suggest that certain indicators of positive youth development and self-compass-

ion could be factors that support the mental well-being of adolescents.

The aim of this study, conducted within the project “Testing the 5C model of positive youth development: traditional and digital

mobile measurement (P.R.O.T.E.C.T.) (UIP - 2020 - 02 - 2852)” funded by the Croatian Science Foundation, was to examine

the predictive contribution of indicators of the 5c model of positive youth development, self-compassion, and their interaction

in explaining adolescents’ mental well-being.

A total of 3,559 adolescents enrolled in the rst grade of high school (Mage = 15.12, SD = .39), of which 54% were girls and

43% were boys, participated in the study. The Short version of the 5C model questionnaire, Self-compassion Scale for Youth,

and Warwick- Edinburgh mental well-being scale were administered online using the SurveyMonkey platform.

The collected data were analyzed in Hayes PROCESS (Hayes, 2013). The obtained results showed that all tested models

were statistically signicant. Adolescents who reported higher levels of competence, character, condence, and connected-

ness, as well as higher levels of self-compassion, also reported higher levels of mental well-being. Moreover, self-compassion

moderated the relationship between condence and mental well-being. The mentioned predictors explained between 37% and

57% of the variance of mental well-being.

The obtained results have important implications for promoting the mental well-being of adolescents which will be discussed

in the presentation.

The role of resources supporting positive behavior of witnesses of cyberbullying

Przepiorka Aneta

, Blachnio Agata

, Cudo Andrzej

, Sobol Malgorzata

The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin,

University of Warsaw

Positive psychology provides knowledge for promoting positive behavior and preventing behavior related to online violence.

The planned experiment was aimed at determining personal characteristics and situational properties that can strengthen the

positive behavior of witnesses of cyberbullying and direct their behavior to support the victim of cyberbullying. The research

involved 480 participants, social media users aged 18-26 years, and was conducted in a ctional environment resembling

Facebook in design and color. Participants were given the option to respond to an attacker’s offensive comment by choosing

the ‘Like’ option and selecting a comment to appear under the post in their name, opting for the ‘neutral’ option, indicating a

passive response to cyber-aggression, or clicking ‘I don’t like it.’ As a result, it turned out that a high level of empathy, proso-

ciality and a low level of aggression promote positive behavior towards situations of experiencing cyberbullying. The obtained

results may be used in the prevention and treatment of risky behavior on the Internet.

The Role of Servant Leadership in the Relationship between Work Intensication and Thriving at Work: A time-

lagged moderated mediation design

Swanzy Erasmus Keli

1,3

, Desouza Mercy

, Berger Rita

Maastricht University,

University of Professional Studies,

University of Barcelona

Background: In the context of the rising global trend of work intensication driven by technological advancements, concerns

have surfaced regarding employees’ capacity to thrive at work. Despite these concerns, there is a scarcity of empirical re-

search exploring the link between work intensication and the ability of employees to thrive, and the role played by leaders.

Aims: This study, employing the Job-Demand-Resource and Conservation of Resources frameworks, has a dual objective.

Firstly, it seeks to explore both the direct and indirect effects of work intensication on employee thriving. Secondly, the study

aims to examine the impact of servant leadership on the relationship between work intensication and employee thriving.

Method: Employing a three-wave time-lagged design spanning six months with 234 participants from diverse organizations in

Ghana, online surveys were administered at three-time interval of two months.

Results: Surprisingly, the ndings revealed a direct positive link between work intensication and thriving at work. Conversely,

an indirect effect demonstrated that work intensication decreased thriving by escalating work-family conict, leading to de-

crease in positive affect. However, the presence of servant leadership acted as a mitigating factor, attenuating the negative

impact of work intensication on thriving at work through its inuence on work-family conict and positive affect.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study provides nuanced insights into the complex relationship between work intensication and

employee thriving, underscoring the crucial role of leaders in fostering employee thriving and wellbeing at work, particularly in

the face of increasing work intensication.

The Role of Spiritual Intelligence and Self-Compassion as Predictors of Perceived Stress and Psychological Resil-

ience among University Students in India during COVID-19

Jagdev Shubhangi

, Khanna Phd Dr Richa

Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic affected university students across the world. Further, the closure of universities glo-

bally to reduce the spread of COVID-19 contributed to the decline in the mental health of university students. Consequently,

spiritual intelligence and self-compassion are inuential variables in buffering the negative effects of stress and enhancing

resilience among university students.

Aims: The aim of the study is to understand the relationships between spiritual intelligence, self-compassion, perceived stress,

and psychological resilience among university students. Further, this study aims to explore perceived stress and psychological

resilience among Indian university students during COVID-19 based on socio-demographic variables.

Method: For data collection, a sample of 140 university students in India was selected using convenience sampling. The data

collection tools included a Demographic Information Sheet, Spiritual Intelligence Self-report Inventory, Self-Compassion Scale

Short Form, Perceived Stress Scale, and Connor Davidson Resilience Scale. Two independent sample t-tests and four simul-

taneous regression analyses were used to analyze the data.

Result: The study found that spiritual intelligence predicted an 11.4% variance in stress levels and a 51.7% variance in resi-

lience levels of university students. Further, self-compassion predicted a 23.7% variance in stress levels and a 33.5% variance

in resilience levels of university students.

Conclusion: The research recommendations include positive psychology researchers to explore the impact of spiritual intelli-

gence and self-compassion with psychological resilience and different types of stress in the context of university students in

the Indian and Western contexts to enhance our understanding of psychological resilience.

The Role of the Family in Parental Well-Being and Depression During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Albright Carolyn A.

, Fosco Gregory M.

The Pennsylvania State University 16802 State College, PA

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented changes to family life for many parents (Gassman-Pines et al., 2020; Prime

et al., 2020) which may have conferred risk or protection to parents (He et al., 2021; Peltz et al., 2021). Despite these changes,

little is known about which family processes are particularly salient for parental mental health and well-being. The purpose of

this project was to investigate whether any family processes may have inuenced parental well-being during the pandemic.

We analyzed data from 204 parents (MAge = 27.44, SDAge = 1.67, 73% female) of young children (MAge = 4.17, SDAge =

2.17). Participants reported on their COVID-19 related stress as well as their family’s cohesion, conict, and chaos in May

2020 and at a one-year follow-up. Additionally, parents reported their levels of life satisfaction and meaning in life. We conduc-

ted two multiple linear regressions with life satisfaction and meaning in life as the outcomes. Models included family cohesion,

conict, chaos, and COVID-19 related stress as predictors. Models also contained the dependent variable from the rst wave

as a control. Results indicated that the life satisfaction (R2=0.13, F(5, 120)=10.87, p<0.001) and meaning in life (R2=0.44, F(5,

120)=18.96, p<0.001), models were signicant. Table 1 indicates family cohesion predicted life satisfaction and meaning in life

one year later. These ndings highlight the importance of family cohesion as a protective factor for parental mental health in

times of great distress and uncertainty.

The Scholarly Terrain of the Study of Love: A Bibliometric Methods Approach

Heshmati Saida

, Rombaoa Jaymes P.

Claremont Graduate University

Background: Research on love has been of interest to positive and traditional psychological sciences. Yet, we lack a compre-

hensive understanding of the depth and breadth of scholarly work on love.

Aims: Through bibliometric methods, we shed light on the (1) evolution of scientic investigations on love over time, and (2)

emerging topics within scientic studies of love in the psychological sciences.

Method: We used the single-word search term “love” to capture a wide breadth of published documents. In two studies, we

used a database of over 9,000 documents from Web of Science and leveraged two bibliometric methods: historiography

(Study 1) and bibliographic coupling (Study 2).

Results: Study 1: Three prominent research clusters found in scientic investigations of love were: (1) research on romantic

love (triangular theory) and intimate relationships, (2)—research on attachment theory and styles, and (3)—research on posi-

tive emotions, compassion and loving-kindness meditations.

Study 2: While some clusters were overlapping, peripheral clusters of research such as narcissism (self-love and egotism),

neuroscience (e.g., oxytocin and neural processing), and loss of loved ones (e.g., bereavement, break-ups) emerged. Conclu-

sion: Specic scholars and documents on very niche topics of love (e.g., narcissism and self-love) may have been overshado-

wed by mainstream research on other love topics (e.g., attachment styles and romantic love). Results can inform researchers

on what aspects of love have been the focus of scientic investigation over decades and what gaps exist in the knowledge

domain of love, especially love as a construct.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

The Socio-Ecological Factors Associated with Resilience in Refugees: A Systematic Scoping Review

Fadhlia Tengku Nila

, Doosje Bertjan

, Sauter Disa

University of Amsterdam

Despite the immense challenges to mental health faced by refugees, research consistently nds that many nevertheless

demonstrate remarkable resilience. However, a systematic account of the scientic literature on resilience among refugees is

currently lacking. This paper aims to ll that gap by comprehensively reviewing research on protective and risk factors affecting

refugees’ resilience across four socio-ecological levels: individual, family, community, and society. We conducted a systematic

search in the databases PsycINFO, Web of Science, and SocINDEX, as well as contacting topic experts to seek out unpu-

blished manuscripts. This yielded 223 studies (171 quantitative, 52 qualitative), which were subjected to systematic content

coding. We found consistent evidence for substantive risk factors, including traumatic experiences and gender at the individual

level and postmigration stress and unemployment at the societal level. We found social support to be a clear protective factor

at the family and community levels. We discuss these ndings in the context of policy and intervention programs, and make

recommendations at different socio-ecological levels for supporting refugees’ resilience.

The Why, What & How of Teaching Happiness

Mündle Thomas

Formatio Privatschule

Wellbeing classes have been taught worldwide at schools and universities over the past years. Recent review papers have

found that most courses yielded signicant, but often rather small increases in psychological wellbeing. So far little systematic

thinking has been done on the why, what and how of psychoeducational courses. In my presentation I would like to offer a

comprehensive pedagogy for happiness lessons in a nutshell.

Concerning the why of happiness classes, it is striking that three quite different aims for teaching such courses have been

pursued. Of course, if the objectives vary, the outcomes could be dissimilar.

Although the what of happiness classes seems to be straightforward - it’s about learning happiness! -, two distinct avenues

have been considered to facilitate the learning process. The top-down approach likens happiness learning to language lear-

ning, the goal being wellbeing literacy. By contrast, the bottom-up approach contends that happiness classes must be a form

of experiential learning. Both views have their strengths and weaknesses.

Finally, a ve-point guide on the how of doing wellbeing courses well is provided. This guide is backed by (positive-)pedago-

gical concepts and illustrated with examples from my own happiness classes (which I have been teaching since 2016). In the

end, it might come as a surprise (or not) that the ve points link up pretty seamlessly with the ve elements of the PERMA

model. Concluding, it can be stated that the PERMA model may serve as a secret didactic manual for teaching good-quality

courses on the good life.

The Whys of Gaming: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Role of Video Game Players’ Motivations in Meaningful and

Engaging Experiences

Scuotto Chiara

, Triberti Stefano

Università Telematica Pegaso

Video games sometimes feature immersive narrative scenarios that elicit complex inner experiences such as the so-called

transformative emotions (e.g., awe, elevation) and ow. However, it is still not clear whether both transformative emotions and

ow depend mainly on a video game’s characteristics or on players’ motivation too. In this study, 119 gamers responded to

ad-hoc questions about their experience of transformative emotions and ow state during video game play through a self-re-

port questionnaire and their motivation to play (Gaming Motivation Scale, GAMS), which investigates different types of gaming

motivation according to Self- determination theory: intrinsic motivation, identied regulation, introjected regulation, external

regulation and amotivation. Regression analyses showed that (1) the frequency of awe experience in video games was predic-

ted (R2=.52) positively by intrinsic motivation, external regulation, and negatively by introjected regulation; (2) the frequency of

elevation experience in video games was predicted (R2=.37) positively by identied regulation; (3) the frequency of ow state

experience in video games was predicted (R2=.58) positively by intrinsic motivation, identied regulation, external regulation,

and negatively by introjected regulation. The results highlight the importance to prole interactive media’s users and to unders-

tand their complex motivations to play in order to design video games able to promote meaningful and engaging experiences.

We also speculate about the utility of the results for other contexts, such as the design of gamied educational tools.

Theory Meets Technology: Empirical Insights from Two Digital-Based Positive Psychology Interventions

Gradito Dubord Marc-Antoine

, Forest Jacques

Curtin University,

ESG UQAM

While workplace strengths interventions are associated with enhanced well-being and performance, their practical application

often faces challenges in accessibility and sustainability. Addressing these concerns, Positive Technology (PT), introduced

by Botella et al. (2012), intersects technology with psychological well-being to improve and sustain personal experiences. PT

offers digital solutions that can readily promote employees’ strengths, overcoming traditional barriers (Gradito Dubord et al.,

2022; Harzer et Ruch, 2018). Our current research highlights two PT applications. The rst is the Totem app (app.totem.com),

which encourages strength-based feedback in team settings, akin to the Character Strengths 360° activity (Niemiec, 2018).

Employing Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000) and a mixed-method approach, we evaluated Totem’s impact on

395 full-time employees versus a control group of 61. Results showed signicant gains in the experimental group’s functio-

ning, with varying effect sizes. Longitudinal analyses using a latent change score model (LCSM) linked post-intervention need

satisfaction to improved work motivation, well-being, and team effectiveness over three weeks. The second study investigates

the impact of a structured 4-week program offered by Nimble Bubble (http://nimblebubble.com/), which is designed to train

managers in providing need-supportive feedback. The research design incorporates a longitudinal assessment approach,

where participants are required to complete a questionnaire prior to commencing the program, immediately after its conclu-

sion, and then again one month post-completion. Based on prior ndings (Lemelin et al., 2023a; Lemelin et al., 2023b), we

anticipate participants will enhance their feedback quality, motivation, and goal orientation, signicantly more than those in a

control group.

Thriving in the second half of life: Identifying predictors of a fullled life

Baumann Doris

University of Zurich

Recently, we introduced fulllment in life as a new line of research. To date, little is known about which variables predict a

fullled life. Self-efcacy and resilience are two core concepts known for positive adaptation and optimal functioning across the

lifespan. This study aimed to investigate the predictive effect of these two constructs on a fullled life. The sample comprised

742 individuals in the second half of life (ages 40-89). Hierarchical regression analyses were used to test whether resilience

and self-efcacy could predict cognitive and affective fulllment over and above demographic, health, and social characteris-

tics. The results indicated that self-efcacy and resilience explained between 11 and 20% additional variance in the fullled

life dimensions. Notably, self-efcacy emerged as the most potent predictor of the three cognitive dimensions of a fullled

life, while loneliness was identied as a robust negative predictor of affective fulllment. The ndings underscore the role of

self-efcacy in actively shaping one’s life, coping well with life transitions, and pursuing personally meaningful goals. Practical

implications for developing and strengthening personal resources to promote a fullling life are suggested.

To Change or Not to Change? – Status Quo Bias and Happiness

Barokas Guy

, Hindy Ling Hila

, Sherman Arie

, Shavit Tal

Ruppin Academic Center,

Ariel University

Background: The status-quo bias (SQB) is the tendency to stick with the current situation despite potential dissatisfaction.

Aims: In this study, we explore the relationship between SQB and subjective well-being (SWB). We hypothesized that higher

SQB may lead to less desirable situations (e.g., unsatisfactory marriage, unwanted job), negatively affecting SWB.

Method: We developed and examined a novel index for measuring SQB. Surveying 1,423 Israeli working adults, the index

showed strong internal consistency and validity, afrming reliability and construct validity.

Results: A signicant negative correlation between SQB and three SWB measures was found, with SQB explaining more to

SWB variations than subjective health, income, and religion combined. Positive life changes over the past three years have

moderated this relationship. Moreover, despite including factors like regret, present bias, loss aversion, and optimism—which

correlate with SWB and SQB in opposite directions and, therefore, could nullify our ndings—the SQB-SWB correlation remai-

ned robust. Furthermore, our SQB measure signicantly predicted SWB even when controlling for the negative relationship

between the affective component of SWB (i.e., emotions) and SQB, which was demonstrated to operate in reverse causality

compared to our hypothesis. In other words, SQB was found to mediate between the affective component and the other com-

ponents of SWB.

Conclusion: By providing evidence of the correlation between SQB and SWB, we introduce a robust SQB measurement tool,

and underscore SQB’s importance when exploring SWB determinants, suggesting that policy interventions encouraging indi-

viduals to overcome barriers to change could be advantageous.

Towards a Positive Psychiatry: The PHOENIX Group - A Short Group Psychotherapy for Improving Mental Health

and Resilience After Inpatient Treatment

Vogel Bob

, Walter Henrik

Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin

In this contribution, we present experiences and preliminary data of the PHOENIX-Group, a short-term group psychotherapy

for patients with depression following inpatient treatment. Developed as an element of ‘Positive Psychiatry’ at Charité by the

authors, it combines elements of Positive Psychotherapy by Rashid/Seligman as well as elements of behavioral activation

to experience positive emotions. The aim is to promote psychological well-being, use positive resources, and reduce the

risk of relapse. The focus is on fostering the experience of positive emotions and recognizing and using one’s own character

strengths, which may be unknown to the patients.

The PHOENIX-Group therapy consists of nine 100-minute sessions over a period of nine weeks, focusing on individual pro-

motion of well-being through practical exercises. Requirements for participation include signicant improvement or remission

after a depressive episode, with exclusion criteria being severe personality disorders, addiction disorders, and psychotic disor-

ders. Led by the two authors, the group emphasizes experiential learning through many practical exercises.

In this contribution, we share our experiences with the PHOENIX-Group, present preliminary data, and outline our plans to

expand and scientically evaluate the project. Our experiences so far underscore the potential of this method to promote

mental health and well- being in patients after a hospital stay. We discuss the planned steps for expanding the program, trans-

diagnostic extension, and methodological approaches for scientic evaluation, with the aim of making behavioral activation

and character strengths usable for therapeutic practice as an add-on therapy.

Training in Positivity: a Randomized Controlled Trail and Evaluation of a digital Positive Psychology Application on

the ability to adapt and mental health in the aftermath of Covid- 19 pandemic

Bohlmeijer Ernst

, Tonis Kim

University of Twente

Introduction: Research has shown that the mental health consequences can persist months after measures of the Covid-19

pandemic ended, also indicated by an increased search for mental health care In the context of public mental health, this study

aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 3-week multicomponent positive psychology intervention delivered as application on

mental well-being and distress.

Method: A randomized controlled trial with waitlist control condition in the general population with mild to moderate levels of

anxiety and depression was conducted. Participants were recruited via national media and social media. Outcomes were

assessed online at baseline, at posttest three weeks after baseline, and follow-up 12 weeks after baseline. The intervention

group (n = 118) received the TiP intervention after baseline, whereas the control condition (n = 116) received the app after

completing posttest.

Results: Linear mixed models showed signicant short-term effects for mental well-being, anxiety, depression, spiritual well-

being, ability to adapt and self-compassion at posttest compared to waitlist (d=0.56-0.96). Effects in the intervention group

were maintained at follow- up.

Conclusion: Digital positive psychology self-help is feasible and effective in promoting ability to adapt and mental health of

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

people coping with lasting consequences from an impactful pandemic. However, people with lower education were underre-

presented. Other formats may be warranted to reach this group.

Understanding meaning in children and youth: mapping the course towards developing a Youth Meaningfulness

Index

Picasso Maria Claudia

, John Rebecca

, Geer Kristoffer

Voluntas

Background: Existing indices measuring the well-being of children and youth typically focus on objective factors, such as

access to education and health, often overlooking the direct involvement of young individuals. At the same time, current

research increasingly recognizes the pivotal role of meaning in fostering positive development in children and youth yet the

exploration of meaningfulness among this demographic remains limited in scope. Aims: This study aims to identify the drivers

of meaning in children and youth, with the aim of developing the Youth Meaningfulness Index, a tool that will measure and

compare levels of meaningfulness in this population worldwide. The ultimate objective is to inform policy focused on the well-

being of young people. Methodology: In partnership with ALV Foundation, Gleding, and UNICEF, data was collected from

10,006 children aged 8-15 in Denmark, India, and Norway. Using both on- line and in-person surveys, participants were asked

three questions about their experiences of meaning in life. The data was then analyzed using manual NLP and advanced

articial intelligence (GPT4), enabling cross-country comparisons of our ndings. Findings: Data revealed six distinct drivers of

meaning: personal growth, creative expression, social connectivity, physical activity, cultural awareness, and playful engage-

ment. Sub-themes including relaxation, alone time, and being at home also emerged, underscoring the introspective aspects

of meaning in children and youth. Conclusion: Our ndings show that these drivers play a signicant role in the development

process of young people, while the emergence of introspective sub-themes challenges prior assumptions about children’s

ability to understand existential concepts.

Understanding Resilience in Turbulent Times: A Three-Year Study of Sense of Coherence, Well-being, and Anxiety

in the Czech Republic

Macel Martin

, Cetkovská Kristýna

, Tušl Martin

, Šípová Ivana

Charles University, Faculty of Arts, Department of Psychology,

University of Zurich, Center of Salutogenesis

Background: In the Czech Republic, the prevalence of common mental disorders doubled and, in some cases, even tripled

(e.g., panic disorder) in 2020 compared to 2017. This, coupled with new crises that plagued the general population (mainly the

COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian war), suggests we should explore the resources that allow people to deal with these

old and new crises in a healthy and ourishing manner.

Aims: Using the salutogenic approach, we examine the longitudinal protective effects of a sense of coherence on well-being

and anxiety over the timespan of 3 years.

Method: We conducted an online survey of the general Czech population between November and December 2021. We then

repeated the survey exactly year later in 2022 and then again in November/December 2023. The 2021 sample was 556

participants (47.8% males), the 2022 sample was 340 participants (48.9% males) and was still representative of the general

Czech population.The last data collection was not yet completed at the time of abstract submission.This makes the dataset

longitudinal with three datapoints one year apart. Using structural equation modelling, we predict well-being (MHC-SF) and

anxiety (GAD-7) in the following year using the prior year’s sense of coherence.

Results: While the results of the three-year study are not yet known, the two-year preliminary results show a signicant protec-

tive effect of a sense of coherence on well-being and anxiety even a full year after the rst collection.

Conclusion: Our results seem to indicate a solid longitudinal protective effect of a sense of coherence on well-being and

general anxiety in a span of several years. This shows that if people view their lives as comprehensible, manageable and

meaningful, they have a stronger foundation for future mental ourishing.

Understanding Sexual Well-Being

Ludwig Vera U.

1,2

, Clifton Jer D.W.

, Lewis Aryeh

, Kaufman Scott Barry

, Crone Damien L.

, Mitchell Kirstin

, Herbenick

Debby , Coston Ethan

Positive Psychology Center, University of Pennsylvania,

Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania,

Touro University,

Columbia University,

Northeastern University,

University of Glasgow,

Indiana University Bloomington,

Virginia Commonwealth University

Background: Sexuality can be an important aspect of human togetherness and well-being. However, in both society and

science, sexuality is often approached from a negative perspective, such as preventing disease (see Booth, 2014). Less at-

tention is given to positive aspects, such as the fostering of love, pleasure, or even self-transcendence. Given the substantial

links between overall well- being, relationship quality, and sexuality, it is crucial to understand what sexual well-being (SW) is

and how to foster it. Existing SW models do not yet sufciently consider positive aspects.

Aims: In a large-scale, ve-year project, we are developing a comprehensive SW measurement scale and multi-dimensional

model, focusing particularly on positive aspects.

Method: We collect survey data, conduct interviews, revisit existing research and well-being theories, assess books on sexu-

ality, and consult with experts, amongst other methodologies. We are also considering sociocultural inuences, recognizing

that sexuality is contextually embedded.

Results: Our ndings so far suggest new aspects of SW, expanding previous models. These include dimensions emerging

from the application of established psychological frameworks such as PERMA, self-determination theory, and Ryff’s model of

well-being, to the domain of sexuality.

Conclusion: The scientic exploration of SW shows new avenues for individuals and couples to experience fullling sexuality

and relationships. Investigating SW may also help remove stigma and shame associated with the topic, thereby allowing for

more positive and respectful conversations in society. Finally, our ndings contribute to a holistic understanding of subjective

well-being and relationships in positive psychology.

Understanding the importance of bonding social capital for the well-being of rst- generation labour migrants:

A cross-sectional study in the Netherlands

Simons Marianne

, Kurt Sinan

, Stefens Marjolein

, Karos Kai

, Beijer Annelie

, Lataster Johan

1,2

Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands,

Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University

Background: As cultural diversity within older populations in European countries increases due to migration, the role of cultural

background and migrant status should be taken account of in aging studies. Bonding social capital (BSC) is recognised as an

important ingredient for wellbeing in old age and found to be associated with someone’s cultural background.

Aims: The present study aims to gain a better understanding of the importance of BSC for the well-being of older rst-genera-

tion labour migrants, residing in the Netherlands, compared to their native peers.

Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 119 Turkish rst-generation labour migrants (64.7% male; age

65-87, M(SD)=71.13(5.04) and 124 Dutch non-migrants (32.3% male, age 65-94, M(SD)= 71.9(5.32). Both samples lled

out either an online or printed questionnaire measuring bonding social capital (PSCSE, Simons et al. 2019), psychological,

social and emotional well-being (MHF-SF, Lamers et al. 2011), loneliness (De Jong Gierveld & Kamphuls, 1985) and relevant

demographic covariates.

Results: Regression analyses showed positive associations between BSC and respectively emotional, social and psycho-

logical well- being and a negative association with loneliness in both samples. Moderation analyses showed that these asso-

ciations were signicantly stronger for the Turkish older migrants than for their native peers. Measurement invariance analysis

indicated partial metric invariance for the measurement of BSC and loneliness and non-invariance for wellbeing, calling for

caution comparing means between samples.

Conclusion: The results of this study emphasise the importance of considering cultural diversity and migrant-related factors

studying social relationships and wellbeing in later life.

Using traditional Indigenous stories to enhance psychological and environmental well- being: Lessons from

Waykáanashpam (Salmon People)

Jacob Michelle M..

University of Oregon

Background: Indigenous peoples have positive psychological practices that have sustained our people in respectful relation

with place for thousands of years. Indigenous worldviews are rooted in traditional stories (also referred to as legends) carried

and shared by Elders and storytellers.

Aims: While Indigenous peoples are diverse, we share teachings including a commitment to storywork, a concept Stó:lō Elder

Joann Archibald describes in her book Indigenous storywork, noting the seven principles of respect, responsibility, recipro-

city, reverence, holism, interrelatedness, and synergy. I apply these principles to the concept of Waykáanashpam (Salmon

People). In doing so, I focus on positive psychological practices of my own Yakama peoples and particularly Yakama Elders’

teachings about the interrelatedness of psychological and environmental well-being.

Method: I analyze the importance of traditional Yakama stories as a positive psychological resource for promoting sustaina-

bility characterized by a sense of responsibility to our human and more than human relations. Using the most comprehensive

printed collection of Yakama stories, the book Anakú Iwachá, I discuss how multiple audiences benet through engaging

stories Yakama Elders have shared with the public.

Results: Traditional Indigenous stories afrm the deep connections between a healthy planet and human well-being. Yakama

stories teach about the primary role of salmon in our lives and environment. When people understand the deep relationship

and responsibilities humans have to salmon, humans are invited to identify as Waykáanashpam.

Conclusion: I conclude by afrming Indigenous stories are a positive psychological resource that can inspire all peoples in our

shared efforts toward sustainable environmental futures.

Utilizing Different Framework Synergies to Enhance Current Environmental-Wellbeing Approaches

Platt Tracey

, Wilkie Stephanie

, Davinson Nicola

University of Sunderland,

Background: Recent frameworks summarising the pathways and mechanisms for nature’s impact on human well-being focus

on drivers from environmental and health psychology related to biodiversity cognition, subjective wellbeing, and behaviour

change (Blind, 2021), with limited inclusion of trait dispositional inuences beyond nature connectedness. A limitation of these

frameworks is the positioning of nature VS. urban environments, without acknowledging individual differences in environ-

ment preferences. Meaning some individuals experience a positive, profound impact from man-made environments. Positive

psychology frameworks of hedonic and eudemonic wellbeing (Seligman, 2011) and character strengths (Wagner, Gander,

Proyer, & Ruch, 2020) reinforce the importance of trait characteristics for understanding state well-being. This presentation will

discuss opportunities for positive psychology frameworks to enhance current environment-well-being approaches.

Aims: The aim is to discuss the synergies between environmental and positive psychology in a systematic way, proposing

future directions for research and collaboration.

Method: A narrative synthesis across a series of studies conducted by the authors and relevant empirical work in environmen-

tal psychology and positive psychology.

Results: The studies highlighted nature settings were more restorative than urban streets (greatest with a nature preference),

with a similar interaction effect existing for positive emotion. Virtual brief doses of environments can elicit differences in

emotion but not mood and place.

Conclusion: Frameworks explaining the inuence of environments should integrate trait cheerfulness/bad mood, character

strengths, identity mechanisms and align well-being outcomes with positive psychology models (e.g. PERMA). Thus, impro-

ving the evidence base for psychological interventions enhancing well-being, as well as potential to inform urban design.

Validation of the German Values in Action Inventory (VIA Youth-96) in Children and Adolescents

Exenberger Silvia

1,2

, Taferner Christina

, Huber Alexandra

, Sevecke Kathrin

, Höfer Stefan

Medical University Innsbruck,

University of Innsbruck

Background: The original Values in Action Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS) is an international 240 item validated self-report

questionnaire measuring 24 character strengths that are assigned to six core virtues. Compared to the adult measure, in the

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It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

validated and reliable English 198-item form for youth the 24 character strengths are allocated to four virtues. Initial informa-

tion of the German VIA Youth 198- item, the factorial structure revealed a ve-factor solution. However, information about the

psychometric properties of the German VIA youth is limited, and information on a short version is missing.

Aim: This study addresses this gap and aims to examine the psychometric properties of the German VIA Youth with 96 items.

Method: To assess if the preliminary ve-factor model of the German VIA Youth-96, conrmative factor analysis (CFA) will

be carried out. A representative sample of 1009 youth from Austria and Germany aged 11-18 (M 14.30; SD = 2.37; 51.7%

girls) participated in the present study. The children and adolescents completed the German version VIA Youth-96, along with

questionnaires assessing life satisfaction, grit and youth’s strengths and difculties. Results: Findings on internal consistency,

demographic correlates, construct validity, and the t of the preliminary ve-factor solution as well as an adequate model are

presented.

Conclusion: A sound measure of character strengths is of great importance functioning as resource activation. The knowled-

ge about one’s own character strengths enables youth to consciously recognise them in oneself and then work with these

strengths for example in a therapy process.

Well-Being and Resilience

Yilmaztürk Yildirim Kübra

Samsun University

In the recent past and even today, epidemics, natural disasters and wars all over the world cause intense stress and change

of meaning in people’s lives. It is important to develop clinical interventions that will improve difcult experiences that negati-

vely affect life and contribute to the recreation of meaning through relevant variables. In this context, the aim of the study is to

examine the effect of individuals’ perceived stress levels and ontological well-being on their psychological resilience in the face

of challenging life events based on the Covid-19 pandemic period. The sample group of the study consists of 470 people who

were exposed to isolation during the pandemic. Demographic Information Form, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Ontological

Well-being Scale (OWBS) and Brief Psychological Resilience Scale (BPRS) were applied to the participants. 393 of the parti-

cipants were female and 77 were male. It was found that as the level of perceived stress increased, the level of psychological

resilience increased as the level of hope and activation scores from the OWBS dimensions increased. However, it was found

that as the perceived stress level increased, the level of regret and nothingness among the OWBS dimensions increased,

and as regret and nothingness increased, psychological resilience decreased. In the regression analysis conducted after this

correlational analysis, it was determined that the perceived stress level predicted psychological resilience level (40%), and

then the OWBS dimensions (hope, activation, regret and nothingness) that participated in the process caused an increase in

variance (9%) in the model.

Well-being through self-fullment? Self-actualization, growth and well-being in the general population

Jacobs Nele

, Verdoodt Katleen

, Simons Marianne

, Reijnders Jennifer

, Verhagen Simone

Open University of the Netherlands, Fac Psychology, Dep Lifespan Psychology,

Background: Self-actualization, entailing the development and expression of the authentic self, is considered to be the highest

level of well-being. Personal growth initiative refers to a developed set of skills for self-improvement, constituting a global

inclination to intentionally improve one’s self across life domains.

Aims: 1)to disentangle the association between self-actualization, personal growth initiative and well-being (study 1) and 2) to

investigate whether self-actualization mediated the association between positive emotions and well-being (study 2).

Method: Study 1 encompassed a cross-sectional online survey in a general population sample (N=461, 68% female, mean

age=45y (SD=17y)). The Short Index of Self-Actualization (SISA), the Personal Growth Initiative II (PGIS-II) and the Mental

Health Continuum Short Form (MHC-SF) were used to measure the concepts. Study 2 included a prospective design with

three measurements (4-weeks interval) in a general population sample (Nt1=495; Nt3=314 (63.4%), 71% female, mean

age=45y (SD=15y)). In addition to SISA, PGIS-II, MHC-SF, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) was used to

measure positive emotions.

Results of the multivariate regression analysis showed that both self-actualization and personal growth initiative were po-

sitively associated with well-being (study 1). Results of the mediation analysis revealed that self-actualization mediated the

association between positive emotions and well-being completely (study 2).

Conclusion: The desire to develop oneself as well as the skills to actively explore new possibilities contribute to well-being.

Positive emotions fuel self-actualization. Therefore, it is important to create conditions in which positive emotions are expe-

rienced as well as in which developmental skills are learned and rened.

Wellbeing and resilience of researchers in Ukraine

Riley Fleur

, Mosol Natalya

, Towl Graham

, Walker Tammi

Durham University,

Zaporizhzhia National University

Background: The war in Ukraine has displaced over 11 million people and seriously disrupted academic and scientic activity

within the Ukraine. For university staff and students still in Ukraine, maintaining research activity and academic endeavour

requires constant adaptation within unpredictable and distressing circumstances. Little is known about the impact of the war

on researchers’ mental health and wellbeing, or the role of resilience in staff and research students’ experiences of continuing

research during times of war.

Aims: In this study we aimed to assess the impact of war on the wellbeing and resilience of researchers in one Ukrainian uni-

versity, situated close to Russian occupied territory and active combat zone.

Method: Ukrainian research staff and students completed a mixed methods survey, comprising open and closed questions

about the impact of war and four psychological measures of wellbeing and resilience.

Results: The results highlighted both practical and emotional impacts of war on research activity, including decreased motiva-

tion. Participants reported low levels of wellbeing, and high levels of psychological distress. However, self-reported resilience

was also very high, with respondents describing increased self-reliance coupled with a sense of shared social responsibility,

and renewed research interest in war-related topics.

Conclusion: Findings suggest that researchers may utilise research as an adaptive mechanism, and individuals’ assessments

of personal resilience may be, somewhat counter-intuitively perhaps, positively impacted by experiences of collective trauma.

Our research contributes to a fuller understanding of the impacts of war on academics working within conict zones, and the

complex interplay between social and individual resilience.

What (Doesn’t) Limit Peoples Prosociality in Social Dilemma Situations

Groß Patricia

1,2

, Burga Tao

, Pons Erola

1,4

, Maier Maximilian

, Cheung Vanessa

, Lieder Falk

Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Tübingen,

Institute of Cognitive Science, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück,

Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island,

Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Tübingen Center for Mental Health, University of Tübingen, Tübingen,

Department of Experimental Psychology, University College London, London,

Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, California,

Background: People often decide against prosocial behavior even when it would benet their own well-being (Epley et al.,

2023).

Aims: We investigate the relative importance of two potential bottlenecks to prosocial behavior: a) lack of attention to one’s

actions’ effects on others, and b) considering these effects unimportant.

Method: We conducted an online study with 11 realistic social dilemmas. Participants (N = 124) chose between several actions

that differed in their level of prosociality, listed the consequences they considered (attention), and rated the importance of each

consequence (personal importance). In addition, we measured social attention by how many signicant consequences for

others the person considered.

Results: Based on all provided options, people’s median level of prosociality was 41.3%. The decisions of the 75.8% of parti-

cipants who considered at least one consequence for others were signicantly more prosocial than the decisions of those who

did not (t(122)=2.09, p=.0385, R^2=3.5%). The importance assigned to consequences for others explains even more of the

variance (t(92)=2.164 , p=0.03309, R^2=4.8%). By contrast, exactly how many consequences for others were considered did

not signicantly affect prosociality (t(122)=1.17, p=.244, R^2=1.1%).

Conclusion: Failing to consider their decisions’ impact on others might limit people’s prosociality, especially when accounting

for importance. The explained variance remains low (3.5% and 4.8%), highlighting the need to explore additional factors in

future research.

What a Meaningful Day! A Network Psychometric Approach to Investigate the Interaction Between Meaning-Making

and the Daily Satisfaction of Basic Psychological Needs

Zambelli Michela

2,1

, Tagliabue Semira

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department of Psychology,

Università di Genova, Department of Educational Sciences (DISFOR)

The work aims at investigating how the process of meaning-making interacts with the daily satisfaction of basic psychological

needs (BPNS; Deci & Ryan, 2000) in a sample of emerging and young adults. By applying the Network Psychometric Ap-

proach in combination with daily diary data, we examined how different components of meaning-making and BPNS relate to

each other within the same day and how they reciprocally predict each other day by day. 637 Italians (Mage=25.4; 26% males)

participated in two 14-days diary studies (observations: 8127). Daily online questionnaires included a self-report measure of

the six basic components of meaning- making (presence and search of comprehension, signicance, and purpose; SMILE,

Zambelli & Tagliabue, 2024), and three items assessing the daily satisfaction of autonomy, relatedness, and competence

(adapted from Chen et al., 2015). A multilevel Gaussian Graphical Model was estimated in psychonetrics (Epskamp, 2021) to

identify within-subject dynamics (contemporaneous and temporal effects over time) between the daily indicators controlling for

stable individual differences. The model showed good t indices (Chi2(7875)=13974; CFI=0.92; RMSEA=0.035). Within the

same day, satisfaction of autonomy was especially associated with perceiving a purposeful life, satisfaction of competence

with perceiving life as comprehensible and satisfaction of relatedness with perceiving a signicant life. Temporal dynamics

revealed that it is primarily nding meaning (comprehension) and searching new meaning (comprehension and purpose) that

predicts increased satisfaction of BPNS the following day. This study offers an innovative and process-oriented perspective

to the investigation of the joint contribution of meaning-making and psychological needs satisfaction to positive psychology.

meaning in life, meaning-making, basic psychological needs, daily diary study, network psychometric

What makes a meaningful day? An experience sampling study on the daily pursuit of meaningfulness through em-

ployee-employer exchange relations

Basri Elaf

, Murphy Susan

, Yue Yumeng

University of Edinburgh

Background: The modern workplace increasingly recognizes the importance of meaningful work, positioning it as a central

element in employee-employer relationships. However, the pursuit and sustainability of daily meaningfulness present ongoing

challenges due to its dynamic nature. Understanding these daily uctuations in meaningfulness is essential yet still underex-

plored.

Aims: Drawing on psychological contract theory and work orientations, this study develops the idea of a ‘meaningfulness deal’

and the pursuit of individualized paths to meaningfulness at work through daily reciprocal exchanges between employees and

employers. It seeks to understand how these interactions contribute to daily and global experiences of meaningful work in

addition to downstream organizational outcomes.

Method: We employed a two-phase assessment design, involving an experience-sampling study of 210 full-time employees

who were surveyed twice daily over 10 consecutive workdays, and a three-wave longitudinal design to test between-level

phenomena. We used dynamic structural equation modeling for analysis.

Results: Our ndings indicate that when organizations fulll perceived obligations in a meaningfulness deal by enabling emp-

loyees to pursue individual paths to meaningfulness, it enhances daily meaningful work experiences. This leads to a reciprocal

commitment from employees to organizational goals. Furthermore, we discovered a cyclical dynamic where daily reciprocation

positively inuences future opportunities for meaningfulness. Additionally, we identied ‘meaningfulness variability,’ which

impacts broader meaningfulness and work outcomes at the between person level.

Conclusion: Our study offers a model of how work becomes and stays meaningful through the reciprocations between em-

ployees and employers that are part of ever-evolving meaningfulness deals with organizational and individual implications.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

Who Needs a Strengths-Based Leader to Fit their Job?

Van Woerkom Marianne

, Bauwens Robin

Tilburg University

Background: Even though person-job t (PJ-t) is a crucial predictor of employees’ overall engagement and performance in

their jobs few studies have identied the mechanisms that enhance PJ-t during the employment relationship. Further, the

models that do predict how PJ-t evolves are predominantly based on the idea that t improves through individual adjustment

processes.

Aims: This paper provides a new lens on PJ-t that is based on a positive psychology, proposing that strengths-based leaders

play a critical role in enhancing PJ-t by encouraging employees to use their unique strengths. Furthermore, based on the

substitutes for leadership theory we test the idea that a combination of proactive personality and job autonomy may partly

compensate for a lack of strengths-based leadership.

Methods: We collected three waves of data with two-month time lags from a representative sample of 287 Dutch workers,

resulting in 906 datapoints.

Results: Results of multi-level path modeling indicate that the relationship between strengths-based leadership and PJ-t is

indeed mediated by strengths use, both on the between- and within-person level. Further, our results indicate that the combi-

nation of high job autonomy and high proactive personality partly compensates for the absence of strengths-based leadership

both on a between-person and within-person level.

Conclusions: Strengths-based leadership is particularly important to facilitate the strengths use of employees who do not have

the combination of these two resources, because they are not proactive and/ or do not have a high degree of autonomy in their

job. We discuss the implications of these ndings for research and practice.

Wisdom, Eudaimonic well-being and Creative-divergent thinking: interrelated processes and resources for aging

well

Zambianchi Manuela

University Institute ISIA, 48033 Cotignola (RA)

Background: Theoretical perspectives on positive aging highlight the centrality of personal resources such as wisdom (Morai-

tou, Efklides, 2012) and cognitive efcacy (Rowe, Khan, 2015) for positive development.

Aims: The study investigated the associations between wisdom and eudaimonic well-being and with perceived efcacy on

creative problem solving. It also explored the presence of differences for structural variables gender and school education.

Method: 106 participants lled in the PWB Questionnaire, the WITHAQ Questionnaire and the Perceived Efcacy Question-

naire on Creative Problem solving.

Results: Positive correlations emerged between wisdom as pragmatic knowledge and creative-thinking (p< 0.01), between

wisdom as dialectical post-formal thinking and creative thinking (p < 0.001). Positive correlations emerged between wisdom as

pragmatic knowledge and PWB (p< 0.001), wisdom as dialectical post-formal thinking and PWB (p< 0.01). School education

inuences the level of wisdom as dialectical post-formal thinking: lowers level of school education correspond to lowers level

of it.

Conclusions: Wisdom appears to be associated with the presence of a high level of eudaimonic well-being, highlighting its

promotional role in actualization of potentials in old age.

The positive correlations emerged between wisdom as post-formal dialectical thinking and creative thinking poses several

interesting issues on the potential underlying processes such as the ability to integrate in a new, creative way, questions, pro-

blems, dilemmas of life. The intercorrelations between creative thinking, PWB and wisdom conrm their relevance for positive

outcomes in old age and suggest the necessity of programs devoted at improving these complex resources and abilities for

dealing successfully with aging.

Work on Wellbeing - the importance of WoW!

Langley Sue

Langley Group,

This presentation will inspire thinking about research quality wellbeing measurement in the workplace.

We wear activity trackers to monitor individual steps, sleep or even calories. Imagine if all workplaces had easy access to track

holistic wellbeing over time with research quality measures of wellbeing.

A case study linked to the inspiring work from High Performance Sport New Zealand and British School Jakarta provies re-

al-world examples of the potential for robust wellbeing measurement for professional athletes, teachers, students and orga-

nisations.

Developed by global leaders in wellbeing, organisational and positive psychology including Dr Aaron Jarden, Dr Todd Kashdan,

Dr Jo Mitchell, Dr Alex Mackenzie, and Dr Dan Weijers, amongst others, Work on Wellbeing assessment, is accessible for all.

So how can researchers, scientists and practitioners normalise the use of robust measurement and understanding of well-

being for workplaces? How can easy measurement enhance the practical application of wellbeing science, for everyone,

every day? What can we do to normalise effective tracking of wellbeing, to notice, and to empower us all to take those steps

towards ourishing?

“Few things in life are easy and worth doing”: how the bi-directional relationships between meaningful work and

work-related stress can both help and hinder wellbeing

Annison Jess

University of East London

Background: Meaning is a key part of psychological wellbeing, and the benets of meaningful work are widely acknowledged.

Many people seek meaning from their work, and some organizations aim to facilitate this through interventions. In parallel,

work-related stress has become a signicant occupational risk.

Aims: This new research sought to understand the perspectives of those who nd their work to be both meaningful and stress-

ful, and to explore the relationships between these concepts.

Method: Participants were interviewed about their experiences of meaning and stress in their work. Using a social construc-

tivist approach to grounded theory, the conversations included discussion around participants’ sense of interconnectedness

and belonging, with regard to both meaningfulness and stress.

Results: Findings indicated that meaningful work and work-related stress are inherently connected, with bi-directional relation-

ships that can support and hinder wellbeing. Meaningfulness can both alleviate and exacerbate stress, and stress can both

reinforce and reduce meaningfulness. Meaningfulness and stress can even feel co-dependent, depending on how participants

perceived and made sense of their experience.

Conclusion: Meaningful work remains a hugely signicant asset for well-being. But with many individuals seeking greater

meaningfulness from their work, the results suggest there is benet in understanding more about the potential harmful effects

of meaningfulness, including implications for stress and possible knock-on consequences for health and work.

ABSTRACT BOOKLET | INNSBRUCK 2024

It‘s you, it‘s me, it‘s us

ACCEPTED ABSTRACTS FOR POSTER PRESENTATIONS

+VE Power Up: An overview of a campus-wide wellness campaign in fostering post- traumatic growth in a Chinese

university

Wu Ka Yu Florence

, Chan Ka Yee Cassie

, Hui See Lam Jazz

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Background: Hong Kong has endured collective trauma since 2019, with the massive social movement followed by the COVID-

19 pandemic These prolonged challenges have had signicant adverse impacts on students’ psychological wellbeing. While

a series of wellness programmes implemented in primary and secondary schools is nurturing students’ wellbeing, there is a

very few structured wellness programmes in the higher education settings.

Aims and Method: Supported with the Governmental funding, a campus-wide campaign, named as +VE Power Up, is de-

signed and implemented by a group of university counsellors to students in a local university. The campaign is framed of a

series of structured events and activities (e.g. in-house trainings; workshops) with the culturally-adapted constructs of Positive

Psychology, such as character strengths, gratitude, self-compassion and connectedness. Another highlight of the campaign is

the establishment of the Positive Psychology Ambassadors. Professional mental-health related trainings are provided. Their

year-long commitment provides opportunities to connect with peers and be present in times of needs.

Result: The Process Evaluation would be administered between semesters. Data collected from the workshops revealed that

an average of 95% of participants strongly agreed or agreed that the activities strengthened their knowledge and skills related

to mental well-being. Additionally, 94% of participants strongly agreed or agreed that the “+VE Power Up Funfair” event served

as a brief introduction to the concepts of character strengths and self-compassion.

Conclusion: The encouraging ndings highlighted the success of the campaign in empowering the human-ware – the strengths,

resilience and compassion in facing times of difculties and challenges.