Background
Positive psychology intervention (PPI) efficacy is often determined based on subjective wellbeing measures. These measures capture individual’s self-evaluations of hedonic (happiness) or eudaimonic (purpose and meaning) wellbeing. However, wellbeing is well understood to be a multi-dimensional construct, inexplicably linked to the physiological state. Broadening measures of efficacy to include physiological approaches, may thereby provide a more wholistic understanding of PPI efficacy, as well as insight into the processes of change associated with wellbeing.
Aim
This study aimed to explore brief, online PPI efficacy according to both subjective and objective wellbeing measures, and to examine if these changes were correlated.
Sample Characteristics and Size
Twenty classroom teachers universally delivered a six-week online wellbeing-program, HQThrive, to 20 grade five/six classes, during term three. Student wellbeing data were gathered pre and immediately post implementation of the program, including paired subjective data (n=138), and paired skin conductance data (n=198).
Design
This was a multi-method study that involved collecting both subjective wellbeing data (SPANE & EPOCH), as well as objective physiological skin conductance wellbeing data (the PIP) at two time points (pre and post program).
Results
Results indicated non-significant changes in subjective wellbeing. Objective measures demonstrated significant improvement in skin conductance performance particularly in relation to time spent in a calm state. A moderate relationship was evident between the SPANE and EPOCH measures. Weak relationships exist between subjective affect balance change and objective calm and stress scores, while no relationship was evident between EPOCH and PIP. A combination of subjective and objective wellbeing measures provide a more wholistic evaluation of PPI efficacy and it is plausible that physiological change may occur before subjective wellbeing evaluations.
Scientific Contribution
Although historically rarely used to evaluate PPI efficacy, physiological data such as skin conductance may add useful information regarding the effects of wellbeing programs.