A Positive Psychological Group Intervention (PPI) in School for the Enhancement of Well-Being of Children whose Parents are Experiencing Psychological Economic Hardship

The current study investigated the effectiveness of a 10-week group counseling positive psychological intervention (PPI) designed to enhance well-being of children whose parents are experiencing psychological economic hardship in primary schools in two areas of Greece. The sample consisted of 270 sixth graders (M_age = 11.07, S.D. = .26) allocated to experimental (n = 145) and control groups (n = 125). Self-report questionnaires were administered before and after the intervention, as well as two months later, measuring students’: demographic characteristics, negative life events, emotional and behavioral problems, affectivity, life satisfaction and psychological well-being. The results showed a statistically significant increase in the level of students’ well-being only in the experimental group. More specifically, the results showed significant decreases in emotional and behavioral problems, negative affect and significant increases in positive affect, life satisfaction and psychological well-being for the intervention group. Furthermore, the increased level was maintained during the follow-up measurement. The value of the findings for future research and practical implications are discussed.