Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
MA in Positive Development Psychology
Publication Date
2010
Granting Institution
Claremont Graduate University
Abstract
Previous studies demonstrated that using signature strengths in new ways can increase life-satisfaction in adults (Rust, Diessner, & Reade, 2009; Seligman, Steen, Park, & Peterson, 2005). The present study aimed to replicate this finding with adolescents and consider hope as the mechanism for this change. Additionally, a third condition was added alongside the original intervention and control conditions, in which students participated in weekly discussion groups about the intervention. A data analysis error resulted in participants practicing the character strengths on which they scored lowest, rather than their signature strengths. There were no significant changes in life-satisfaction, however participants in the intervention-only and discussion-group conditions were significantly more hopeful at the end of the intervention. Although the proposed mediational model could not be tested, the present study discusses the possible role of hope as a life-satisfaction building mechanism and considers the implication of these findings regarding practicing a lesser strength.