Young People’s Attitude Toward Positive Psychology Interventions: Thematic Analysis

Abstract

BackgroundDigital instantiations of positive psychology intervention (PPI) principles have been proposed to combat the current global youth mental health crisis; however, young people are largely not engaging with available resources. ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to explore young people’s attitudes toward various PPI principles to find ways of making digital instantiations of them more engaging. MethodsWe conducted an explorative workshop with 30 young people (aged 16-21 years). They rated and reviewed 29 common PPIs. Ratings and recorded discussions were analyzed using thematic analysis. ResultsSome interventions were conflicting with young people’s values or perceived as too difficult. Participants responded positively to interventions that fit them personally and allowed them to use their strengths. ConclusionsValues, context, strengths, and other personal factors are entangled with young people’s attitudes toward digital instantiations of PPI principles.