University of Twente Student Theses
Minitraining Positiviteit en Geluk : Pilot study on the effects and user experiences of a short-term online positive psychology intervention based on positive emotions-
Heinrich, S.S. (2017) Minitraining Positiviteit en Geluk : Pilot study on the effects and user experiences of a short-term online positive psychology intervention based on positive emotions-.
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| Abstract: | Introduction: The aim of this current pilot study was to get an overview of the effects and user experiences with a new developed short-term mHealth positive psychology intervention which consists of different evidence-based exercises. Positive Psychology focuses on improving well-being. An important component of well-being are positive emotions. Therefore, well-being can be reached by focusing on and increasing positive emotions. It is scientifically proven that positive psychology interventions as well as online (mobile) positive psychology interventions, which consist of mental exercises, can increase well-being. An example of such interventions is the ‘three good things’ intervention which improves well-being by increasing positive emotions. Within mHealth interventions it is not only effective to use evidence-based content, but also persuasive technology, for example to make the intervention more attractive for users and to reach a better adherence. Until now there are not many evidence-based mHealth positive psychology interventions. Method: Eleven mentally healthy participants took part in this study. The intervention was presented via an app. It lasted over two weeks and consisted of three different exercises: ‘three good things’, ‘savoring – positive activities’ and ‘active-constructive responding’. A pre- and posttest measure was done with the outcome variables well-being, positive- and negative emotions, and perceived stress. Further, user experiences were studied. The used measurement instruments were the ‘Mental Health Continuum-short form’, ‘Positive and Negative Affect Schedule’, and ‘Perceived Stress Scale’. Results: Within adherent participants (n=7) there was significant progress of well-being and marginally significant reduction of perceived stress identified. Positive and negative emotions did not show significant differences from pre- to posttest. The user experiences showed that most adherent participants rated the intervention generally rather positive and especially the exercises ‘three good things’. Nevertheless, there are still several aspects on which participants made suggestions for improvement of the intervention, for example to use less notifications and reminders. Discussion: The progress of well-being and reduction of perceived stress confirmed expectations. The results regarding positive emotions however raised a few questions and further research is required. In average, participants did like the intervention, the presentation via an app, and the notifications which were used to inform about available exercises. For future research it is recommended to study the outcomes within perceived emotions, to use a broader variety of exercises and to study causal effects of the intervention. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/71691 |
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