Towards validating a framework of adaptive schemata for entrepreneurial success.
- Amanjee, B., Crous, F., Crafford, A.
- Authors: Amanjee, B. , Crous, F. , Crafford, A.
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Maldaptive schemata , Entrepreneurial success , Positive psychology , Entrepreneurship
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:6453 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1392
- Description: The role of entrepreneurship within the context of an emerging economy has been well documented. Specifically within the South African context, the concept of entrepreneurship has been embraced by most industry sectors particularly for its resultant job creation and associated economic benefits. To date, psychologists have attempted to understand and define the factors that predispose individuals to embark on entrepreneurial careers, focusing primarily on the personality characteristics of entrepreneurs. However, entrepreneurial research from a cognitive psychological framework has been limited. Specifically, the impact of schemata on the success of the entrepreneur has received little exposure. A study was conducted to examine the presence and type of schemata inherent in successful entrepreneurs. The findings indicate that successful entrepreneurs display varied manifestations of adaptive schemata.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Amanjee, B. , Crous, F. , Crafford, A.
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Maldaptive schemata , Entrepreneurial success , Positive psychology , Entrepreneurship
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:6453 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1392
- Description: The role of entrepreneurship within the context of an emerging economy has been well documented. Specifically within the South African context, the concept of entrepreneurship has been embraced by most industry sectors particularly for its resultant job creation and associated economic benefits. To date, psychologists have attempted to understand and define the factors that predispose individuals to embark on entrepreneurial careers, focusing primarily on the personality characteristics of entrepreneurs. However, entrepreneurial research from a cognitive psychological framework has been limited. Specifically, the impact of schemata on the success of the entrepreneur has received little exposure. A study was conducted to examine the presence and type of schemata inherent in successful entrepreneurs. The findings indicate that successful entrepreneurs display varied manifestations of adaptive schemata.
- Full Text:
The branding of a new discipline: positive psychology
- Authors: Crous, Freddie
- Date: 2008-11-12T08:45:31Z
- Subjects: Positive psychology , University branding
- Type: Inaugural
- Identifier: uj:14925 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1633
- Description: Inaugural lecture--Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, 15 August 2007
- Full Text:
- Authors: Crous, Freddie
- Date: 2008-11-12T08:45:31Z
- Subjects: Positive psychology , University branding
- Type: Inaugural
- Identifier: uj:14925 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1633
- Description: Inaugural lecture--Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, 15 August 2007
- Full Text:
Validation of the children’s hope scale in South African adolescents
- Authors: Kok, Monique
- Date: 2012-06-04
- Subjects: Adolescent psychology , Positive psychology , Teenagers , Motivation (Psychology)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2369 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4824
- Description: M.A. , This study investigated the validity of the Children’s Hope Scale (CHS) among a sample of South African adolescents. The aims of this study were to determine the internal consistency, the factor structure and construct validity of the CHS among a group of 1062 adolescents, aged between 13 and 16 years. Internal consistency was established and yielded a Cronbach alpha coefficient of .73. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was implemented to determine the factor structure of the CHS. After rejecting the null model as well as the one factor model (model 2), a revised model 3 was accepted (χ? = 15.43, p < .001; CFI = 0.99; RMSEA = 0.03, 90% CI, .01 to .056). Specifically, item 5 was specified to load on the pathways factor and not on agency. Convergent and discriminant validity was determined by establishing correlation coefficients between the CHS and criterion measures. Hope correlated positively with coping self-efficacy (r = .58), positive affect (r = .48) and psychological well-being (r = .59); and negatively with negative affect (r = -.23). It can be concluded that the CHS is an adequate measure of hope in the current sample used. Future research could consider validating the CHS for other age groups as well as developing translated versions of the CHS for languages appropriate to South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kok, Monique
- Date: 2012-06-04
- Subjects: Adolescent psychology , Positive psychology , Teenagers , Motivation (Psychology)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2369 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4824
- Description: M.A. , This study investigated the validity of the Children’s Hope Scale (CHS) among a sample of South African adolescents. The aims of this study were to determine the internal consistency, the factor structure and construct validity of the CHS among a group of 1062 adolescents, aged between 13 and 16 years. Internal consistency was established and yielded a Cronbach alpha coefficient of .73. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was implemented to determine the factor structure of the CHS. After rejecting the null model as well as the one factor model (model 2), a revised model 3 was accepted (χ? = 15.43, p < .001; CFI = 0.99; RMSEA = 0.03, 90% CI, .01 to .056). Specifically, item 5 was specified to load on the pathways factor and not on agency. Convergent and discriminant validity was determined by establishing correlation coefficients between the CHS and criterion measures. Hope correlated positively with coping self-efficacy (r = .58), positive affect (r = .48) and psychological well-being (r = .59); and negatively with negative affect (r = -.23). It can be concluded that the CHS is an adequate measure of hope in the current sample used. Future research could consider validating the CHS for other age groups as well as developing translated versions of the CHS for languages appropriate to South Africa.
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Validating the positivity projective technique
- Authors: Meiring, Elsmie
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Projective techniques , Mind and body , Embodiment theories , Positivity
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2451 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4909
- Description: M. Comm. , The assessment and measurement of positive psychology have been largely survey driven, given the way in which this domain’s focus areas have been operationalised. The disadvantage of using surveys in the measurement of positive psychology is that measurement is to an extent ‘disembodied’ in this approach, meaning that positive psychology is reduced to a mental activity – something which implies the negation of the physical. The purpose of the study was therefore to explore to what extent an alternative instrument, the Positivity Projective Technique (PPT), based on embodiment theory, serves as a valid projective technique for eliciting positivity. Data were collected by means of a sentence completion technique (SCT) whereafter it was quantitatively (to a limited extent) and qualitatively analysed by means of a content analysis. The results were similar to, but greater in number than, the variables proposed by formal theories/models of positivity. Given the results, the PPT seems to be a valid projective technique of positivity and may be applied for positive developmental purposes within individual, organisational and consumer contexts.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Meiring, Elsmie
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Projective techniques , Mind and body , Embodiment theories , Positivity
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2451 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4909
- Description: M. Comm. , The assessment and measurement of positive psychology have been largely survey driven, given the way in which this domain’s focus areas have been operationalised. The disadvantage of using surveys in the measurement of positive psychology is that measurement is to an extent ‘disembodied’ in this approach, meaning that positive psychology is reduced to a mental activity – something which implies the negation of the physical. The purpose of the study was therefore to explore to what extent an alternative instrument, the Positivity Projective Technique (PPT), based on embodiment theory, serves as a valid projective technique for eliciting positivity. Data were collected by means of a sentence completion technique (SCT) whereafter it was quantitatively (to a limited extent) and qualitatively analysed by means of a content analysis. The results were similar to, but greater in number than, the variables proposed by formal theories/models of positivity. Given the results, the PPT seems to be a valid projective technique of positivity and may be applied for positive developmental purposes within individual, organisational and consumer contexts.
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High performance team coaching : a positive deviant exploration
- Authors: Maritz, Morné
- Date: 2014-11-25
- Subjects: Performance - Management , Employees - Coaching of , Positive psychology
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13124 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13099
- Description: M.Com. , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maritz, Morné
- Date: 2014-11-25
- Subjects: Performance - Management , Employees - Coaching of , Positive psychology
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13124 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13099
- Description: M.Com. , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
The effect of a positive psychology intervention on psychosocial well-being among a group of early adolescents
- Authors: Davies, Jayleen Charlyn
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Well-being , Depression in adolescence , Positive psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/66198 , uj:17437
- Description: Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a positive psychology intervention on the psychosocial well-being of a group of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 13 using a quasi-experimental quantitative approach. The positive psychology intervention was implemented over a four week period within the school setting, and consisted of one half-hour session per week. Intervention activities focused on enhancing positive emotions about the past, in the present, and toward the future through meditation, gratitude activities, a savouring exercise, a kindness intervention, identifying and developing character strengths and an optimism enhancing exercise. Complete data at baseline, one-week post-intervention, and 5-week follow-up was gathered from 95 grade seven scholars who were randomly assigned to the experimental (intervention) condition (n = 44) or control group (n=51). The control group received no intervention and no placebo. Data was gathered using the Mental Health Continuum – Short Form (MHC-SF) for adolescents to measure well-being, and the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale – Short Version (RCADS-SV) as the indicator for anxiety and depression. While no significant changes were indicated in the control group in either well-being or pathology, quantitative data revealed promising results in the experimental group, suggesting that the brief intervention may have impacted on the psychosocial well-being of the adolescents indirectly by significantly decreasing symptoms of mental ill-health including anxiety and depression after follow-up analysis. Although no significant differences were found in psychosocial well-being per se, the significant decrease in anxiety and depression may increase well-being and in so doing promote flourishing adolescents. Furthermore, evidence suggests that well-being interventions have a delayed or long-term effect and as such future research ought to look at the effects of positive psychology interventions among a broader agerange and socio-economic group using longitudinal studies. , M.A.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Davies, Jayleen Charlyn
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Well-being , Depression in adolescence , Positive psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/66198 , uj:17437
- Description: Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a positive psychology intervention on the psychosocial well-being of a group of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 13 using a quasi-experimental quantitative approach. The positive psychology intervention was implemented over a four week period within the school setting, and consisted of one half-hour session per week. Intervention activities focused on enhancing positive emotions about the past, in the present, and toward the future through meditation, gratitude activities, a savouring exercise, a kindness intervention, identifying and developing character strengths and an optimism enhancing exercise. Complete data at baseline, one-week post-intervention, and 5-week follow-up was gathered from 95 grade seven scholars who were randomly assigned to the experimental (intervention) condition (n = 44) or control group (n=51). The control group received no intervention and no placebo. Data was gathered using the Mental Health Continuum – Short Form (MHC-SF) for adolescents to measure well-being, and the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale – Short Version (RCADS-SV) as the indicator for anxiety and depression. While no significant changes were indicated in the control group in either well-being or pathology, quantitative data revealed promising results in the experimental group, suggesting that the brief intervention may have impacted on the psychosocial well-being of the adolescents indirectly by significantly decreasing symptoms of mental ill-health including anxiety and depression after follow-up analysis. Although no significant differences were found in psychosocial well-being per se, the significant decrease in anxiety and depression may increase well-being and in so doing promote flourishing adolescents. Furthermore, evidence suggests that well-being interventions have a delayed or long-term effect and as such future research ought to look at the effects of positive psychology interventions among a broader agerange and socio-economic group using longitudinal studies. , M.A.
- Full Text:
The effect of positive psychology interventions on hope and wellbeing among adolescents living in a child and youth care centre
- Authors: Teodorczuk, Krysia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Teenagers , Child care services
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/59599 , uj:16552
- Description: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.A. (Clinical Psychology)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Teodorczuk, Krysia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Teenagers , Child care services
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/59599 , uj:16552
- Description: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.A. (Clinical Psychology)
- Full Text:
A meta-theoretical taxonomy of positive psychology constructs
- Du Plessis, Graham Alexander
- Authors: Du Plessis, Graham Alexander
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Industrial psychology
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/378822 , uj:13495 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13527
- Description: M.Com. (Industrial Psychology and People Management) , The present investigation is positioned at a crucial juncture in the field of positive psychology where considerable enthusiasm has seen a growing proliferation in research and practice that has outstripped the ability of the field to maintain a sense of meta-theoretical integrity and domain identity. In this study a meta-theoretical taxonomy of positive psychology is developed in order to meet the pressing need for sound meta-theoretical integration that is necessary to facilitate a multiplicity of possible futures for the field of positive psychology. This proposed meta-theoretical taxonomy delimits the dominant constructs in the field according to the taxonomical components of (1) Positive Characteristics, (2) Healthy Processes, and (3) Positive Outcomes. The utility of the developed meta-theoretical taxonomy in organizing dominant constructs within the field informs the central research problem. This problem is addressed by identifying 33 dominant positive psychology constructs, grouping them according to the theoretical principles of the proposed taxonomy, and then empirically examining whether the theoretical organization has utility in explaining latent factor structures and loadings of data for these constructs in the research sample. The research sample employed consisted of 904 undergraduate students at the University of Johannesburg. There were 694 women, 208 men and two individuals with undeclared gender in the sample. These participants represented a diversity of self-declared ethnicities: Black (630), Coloured (59), Indian / Asian (47), and White (164). Within the sample there were 19 different home languages that can be summarized as: Afrikaans (47), English (258), Indigenous South African (588), and other (9). In order to compare the theoretical organization of the 33 dominant constructs with empirically determined data, a 483 item questionnaire was developed and refined using Rasch modelling. The development of the measure of the identified constructs was informed by contemporary theory and measurement pertaining to each of the specific constructs. Following the refined measurement of the constructs, factor analytic procedures were used to determine latent factor structures for the 33 constructs. The latent factor structure and factor loadings of the specific constructs were then compared with the theorized organization determined by the proposed model. The central finding of the present investigation is that the theorized taxonomy is able to account for a deep theoretical conceptualization as to the functioning of the facets of the identified dominant constructs. This greater insight into the functioning and structure of the constructs within the field of positive psychology has profound implications for the manner in which constructs can be understood and for the manner in which these constructs can be elicited and practiced. Collectively, the meta-theoretical components of (1) Positive Characteristics, (2) Healthy Processes, and (3) Positive Outcomes represent an important meta-synthesis that serves to meet the pressing call for the firm theoretical integration necessary to secure an array of sustainable futures within the field of positive psychology.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Du Plessis, Graham Alexander
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Industrial psychology
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/378822 , uj:13495 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13527
- Description: M.Com. (Industrial Psychology and People Management) , The present investigation is positioned at a crucial juncture in the field of positive psychology where considerable enthusiasm has seen a growing proliferation in research and practice that has outstripped the ability of the field to maintain a sense of meta-theoretical integrity and domain identity. In this study a meta-theoretical taxonomy of positive psychology is developed in order to meet the pressing need for sound meta-theoretical integration that is necessary to facilitate a multiplicity of possible futures for the field of positive psychology. This proposed meta-theoretical taxonomy delimits the dominant constructs in the field according to the taxonomical components of (1) Positive Characteristics, (2) Healthy Processes, and (3) Positive Outcomes. The utility of the developed meta-theoretical taxonomy in organizing dominant constructs within the field informs the central research problem. This problem is addressed by identifying 33 dominant positive psychology constructs, grouping them according to the theoretical principles of the proposed taxonomy, and then empirically examining whether the theoretical organization has utility in explaining latent factor structures and loadings of data for these constructs in the research sample. The research sample employed consisted of 904 undergraduate students at the University of Johannesburg. There were 694 women, 208 men and two individuals with undeclared gender in the sample. These participants represented a diversity of self-declared ethnicities: Black (630), Coloured (59), Indian / Asian (47), and White (164). Within the sample there were 19 different home languages that can be summarized as: Afrikaans (47), English (258), Indigenous South African (588), and other (9). In order to compare the theoretical organization of the 33 dominant constructs with empirically determined data, a 483 item questionnaire was developed and refined using Rasch modelling. The development of the measure of the identified constructs was informed by contemporary theory and measurement pertaining to each of the specific constructs. Following the refined measurement of the constructs, factor analytic procedures were used to determine latent factor structures for the 33 constructs. The latent factor structure and factor loadings of the specific constructs were then compared with the theorized organization determined by the proposed model. The central finding of the present investigation is that the theorized taxonomy is able to account for a deep theoretical conceptualization as to the functioning of the facets of the identified dominant constructs. This greater insight into the functioning and structure of the constructs within the field of positive psychology has profound implications for the manner in which constructs can be understood and for the manner in which these constructs can be elicited and practiced. Collectively, the meta-theoretical components of (1) Positive Characteristics, (2) Healthy Processes, and (3) Positive Outcomes represent an important meta-synthesis that serves to meet the pressing call for the firm theoretical integration necessary to secure an array of sustainable futures within the field of positive psychology.
- Full Text:
Towards the enactment of positivity in the workplace
- Authors: Fataar, Shenade
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Projective techniques , Employees - Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225672 , uj:22798
- Description: Abstract: Orientation: Previous research findings (qualitative and quantitative) suggest that the Positivity Projective Technique is a valid associative technique for eliciting positive constructs and concepts. The challenge taken up by this study was to move beyond the technique’s associative nature, and to explore the enactment thereof in the workplace. Motivation for the study: This study was motivated by the following question: Does the metaphor-logo, embedded in the Positivity Projective Technique, enable participants to construct a theory for positive action in an organisational setting? Research approach and method: A post-modern, social constructionist approach was followed via the use of a positive action-research method, appreciative inquiry (AI). The metaphor-logo was included in all the questions of a protocol that guided the participants through the phases of the appreciative inquiry cycle. Main findings: The metaphor-logo enabled participants to collectively construct a theory for positive action, namely to discover their organisation’s positive core, which broadened their minds to the extent that a positive dream for the organisation was envisioned. A social architecture for making the dream actionable, was constructed, as well as a positive destiny for future action. Applications: Methodologically, this study incorporated the use of image research into Industrial Psychology methodology. Theoretically, this study contributed to the positive image–positive action relationship. Practically, the logo-metaphor used in the study may be used as a valid tool for both associative and enactment purposes. Contribution: In view of the findings, it is suggested the name “Positivity Projective Technique” be expanded to “Positivity Projective and Enactment Technique”. As such it may be applied to brand positivity in the workplace. , M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fataar, Shenade
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Projective techniques , Employees - Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225672 , uj:22798
- Description: Abstract: Orientation: Previous research findings (qualitative and quantitative) suggest that the Positivity Projective Technique is a valid associative technique for eliciting positive constructs and concepts. The challenge taken up by this study was to move beyond the technique’s associative nature, and to explore the enactment thereof in the workplace. Motivation for the study: This study was motivated by the following question: Does the metaphor-logo, embedded in the Positivity Projective Technique, enable participants to construct a theory for positive action in an organisational setting? Research approach and method: A post-modern, social constructionist approach was followed via the use of a positive action-research method, appreciative inquiry (AI). The metaphor-logo was included in all the questions of a protocol that guided the participants through the phases of the appreciative inquiry cycle. Main findings: The metaphor-logo enabled participants to collectively construct a theory for positive action, namely to discover their organisation’s positive core, which broadened their minds to the extent that a positive dream for the organisation was envisioned. A social architecture for making the dream actionable, was constructed, as well as a positive destiny for future action. Applications: Methodologically, this study incorporated the use of image research into Industrial Psychology methodology. Theoretically, this study contributed to the positive image–positive action relationship. Practically, the logo-metaphor used in the study may be used as a valid tool for both associative and enactment purposes. Contribution: In view of the findings, it is suggested the name “Positivity Projective Technique” be expanded to “Positivity Projective and Enactment Technique”. As such it may be applied to brand positivity in the workplace. , M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)
- Full Text:
Post traumatic growth, meaning in life and hope among emerging adults
- Authors: De Klerk, Elonie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Posttraumatic growth , Meaning (Psychology) , Post-traumatic stress disorder , Hope
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235217 , uj:24064
- Description: M.A. (Counselling Psychology) , Abstract: Positive psychology (PP) is interested in individuals’ optimal human functioning and focuses on positive experiences and positive characters and virtues. A developmental phase that seems to particularly benefit from positive functioning is emerging adulthood, which refers to individuals between the ages of 18 and 25 years. When these individuals enter the university context as students, additional factors may impact on their development. Moreover, although emerging adults tend to seem hopeful about the future, have the potential to establish close relationships and are capable of positive change, yet research has mainly focussed on negative aspects concerning this life phase. This study therefore aims to focus on aspects that could be indicators of positive functioning during this life phase, namely post traumatic growth (PTG), meaning in life (MIL) and hope. This study also examines the relationship between these constructs, as well as MIL and hope as predictors of PTG. In order to achieve these aims, a quantitative, cross-sectional and correlational research design was implemented. The sample consisted of emerging adults (n= 166), who completed an online survey, which consisted of a Biographical Questionnaire, the Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MILQ) and the Adult Hope Scale (AHS). The MILQ was used to determine the Presence of Meaning (MIL-P) and Search for Meaning (MIL-S). The participants in this study indicated high levels of PTG, MIL and hope. Relationships between PTG and MIL-P, PTG and hope and MIL- P and hope were positive and statistically significant. The prediction values of both MIL-P and hope towards PTG were statistically significant. Further research is needed to better understand the factors that influence the relationships between PTG, MIL and hope. Recommendations within this context are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: De Klerk, Elonie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Posttraumatic growth , Meaning (Psychology) , Post-traumatic stress disorder , Hope
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235217 , uj:24064
- Description: M.A. (Counselling Psychology) , Abstract: Positive psychology (PP) is interested in individuals’ optimal human functioning and focuses on positive experiences and positive characters and virtues. A developmental phase that seems to particularly benefit from positive functioning is emerging adulthood, which refers to individuals between the ages of 18 and 25 years. When these individuals enter the university context as students, additional factors may impact on their development. Moreover, although emerging adults tend to seem hopeful about the future, have the potential to establish close relationships and are capable of positive change, yet research has mainly focussed on negative aspects concerning this life phase. This study therefore aims to focus on aspects that could be indicators of positive functioning during this life phase, namely post traumatic growth (PTG), meaning in life (MIL) and hope. This study also examines the relationship between these constructs, as well as MIL and hope as predictors of PTG. In order to achieve these aims, a quantitative, cross-sectional and correlational research design was implemented. The sample consisted of emerging adults (n= 166), who completed an online survey, which consisted of a Biographical Questionnaire, the Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MILQ) and the Adult Hope Scale (AHS). The MILQ was used to determine the Presence of Meaning (MIL-P) and Search for Meaning (MIL-S). The participants in this study indicated high levels of PTG, MIL and hope. Relationships between PTG and MIL-P, PTG and hope and MIL- P and hope were positive and statistically significant. The prediction values of both MIL-P and hope towards PTG were statistically significant. Further research is needed to better understand the factors that influence the relationships between PTG, MIL and hope. Recommendations within this context are discussed.
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Positive emotional experiences, impression management and their relationship with organisational citizenship behaviour
- Authors: Letsela, Masechaba Amanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Emotions , Positive psychology , Organizational behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/451484 , uj:39783
- Description: Abstract: Orientation: The changing world of work has led to high levels of competition for organisations. Employees may be a key source of competitive advantage within the changing landscape. Organisations are required to cultivate environments in which employees may thrive and where optimal organisational performance can be achieved amid fast-paced digital change. Employees may be required to be continuously engaged and display high levels of resilience within this environment, whilst they are also expected to experience appropriate emotional states... , M.Phil. (Leadership Performance and Change)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Letsela, Masechaba Amanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Emotions , Positive psychology , Organizational behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/451484 , uj:39783
- Description: Abstract: Orientation: The changing world of work has led to high levels of competition for organisations. Employees may be a key source of competitive advantage within the changing landscape. Organisations are required to cultivate environments in which employees may thrive and where optimal organisational performance can be achieved amid fast-paced digital change. Employees may be required to be continuously engaged and display high levels of resilience within this environment, whilst they are also expected to experience appropriate emotional states... , M.Phil. (Leadership Performance and Change)
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Teachers’ perceptions of character strengths for learner support
- Authors: Eloff, Eugenie Marié
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Academic achievement - Psychological aspects , Character
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/481210 , uj:43594
- Description: Abstract: This study explored teachers’ perceptions of the identification and utilisation of character strengths as support for learners. The role of teachers in learner support has changed dramatically with the implementation of inclusive education policies in South Africa. Inclusive education requires that teachers support diverse learner needs, celebrate diversity, and acknowledge learners’ strengths, rather than focusing on learner challenges. It is proposed in this study that a paradigm shift is needed for teachers to move away from a focus on challenges of diversity and rather celebrate it by focusing on the assets and strengths of the learners. One such way is to identify learners’ character strengths and to implement these asset-based principles in the classroom to support learners. Character strengths for learner support is an approach embedded in positive psychology, which encourages teachers to acknowledge and use the unique, innate positive traits of learners instead of focusing mostly on what learners lack. A phenomenological qualitative study in one mainstream primary school in South Africa explored grade 7 teachers’ perceptions of character strengths identification and utilisation for learner support. The study was embedded in the PERMA model of well-being and Bronfenbrenner’s Bio-ecological model. Data were collected through staff development workshop feedback forms and semi-structured individual interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings of the study indicated that teachers found the workshop on character strengths empowering, insightful and of value. Findings further indicated that teachers’ knowledge and awareness of character strengths transferred to their views on supportive inclusive pedagogies and to spontaneous implementation of character strengths-based principles in the classroom. Holistic support of learners to help them flourish, their overall well-being at school, and learners’ self-development were identified as noteworthy outcomes when focusing on character strengths in supporting learners. , M.Ed. (Educational Psychology)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Eloff, Eugenie Marié
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Positive psychology , Academic achievement - Psychological aspects , Character
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/481210 , uj:43594
- Description: Abstract: This study explored teachers’ perceptions of the identification and utilisation of character strengths as support for learners. The role of teachers in learner support has changed dramatically with the implementation of inclusive education policies in South Africa. Inclusive education requires that teachers support diverse learner needs, celebrate diversity, and acknowledge learners’ strengths, rather than focusing on learner challenges. It is proposed in this study that a paradigm shift is needed for teachers to move away from a focus on challenges of diversity and rather celebrate it by focusing on the assets and strengths of the learners. One such way is to identify learners’ character strengths and to implement these asset-based principles in the classroom to support learners. Character strengths for learner support is an approach embedded in positive psychology, which encourages teachers to acknowledge and use the unique, innate positive traits of learners instead of focusing mostly on what learners lack. A phenomenological qualitative study in one mainstream primary school in South Africa explored grade 7 teachers’ perceptions of character strengths identification and utilisation for learner support. The study was embedded in the PERMA model of well-being and Bronfenbrenner’s Bio-ecological model. Data were collected through staff development workshop feedback forms and semi-structured individual interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings of the study indicated that teachers found the workshop on character strengths empowering, insightful and of value. Findings further indicated that teachers’ knowledge and awareness of character strengths transferred to their views on supportive inclusive pedagogies and to spontaneous implementation of character strengths-based principles in the classroom. Holistic support of learners to help them flourish, their overall well-being at school, and learners’ self-development were identified as noteworthy outcomes when focusing on character strengths in supporting learners. , M.Ed. (Educational Psychology)
- Full Text:
Trauma survivors’ experiences of Kundalini yoga in fostering post-traumatic growth
- Authors: Morrison, Karlita
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Posttraumatic growth , Positive psychology , Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/479002 , uj:43309
- Description: Abstract: The prevalence of potential traumatic events in South Africa has been found to be eminently high (de la Porte & Davids, 2016). This is due to a history of political violence and an ongoing tendency of interpersonal, community-based, socio-economic violence (Atwoli et al., 2013). Exposure to trauma challenges one’s previous assumptions on conceptions of predictability and contest preconceived views of the world (Tedeschi & Blevins, 2015). After trauma-exposure, individuals attempt to conceptualise the event and engage in cognitive processes to reconstruct their assumptive world and recover from trauma (Cann et al., 2011). The physiological effects of trauma are illuminated by drawing on Stephen Porges’s polyvagal theory (PVT) (Porges, 2011). Recent shifts literature has begun to emphasise the potential to perceive benefits and growth following exposure to trauma which is referred to as post-traumatic growth (PTG) (Tedeschi & Kilmer, 2005). Conventional therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic interventions have been found to support trauma survivors in South Africa (Kaminer & Eagle, 2017). However, the lack of professionals trained in these approaches are extremely limited and alternative methods needs to be explored on, especially those that can be delivered in a group setting by a non-professional (Bruckner et al., 2011; Mendelhall et al., as cited in Kaminer & Eagle, 2017). This generic qualitative study design was implemented to enquire about trauma survivors’ experiences of Kundalini yoga (KY) in the promotion of PTG. The seven participants were identified through a non-profit organisation in Alexandra, that is a densely populated township known for high rates of unemployment and crime in Johannesburg (Crime Stats SA, 2018; Ebrahim, 2019). The data was collected in the form of individual semi-structured interviews after which thematic analysis was implemented to interpret the participants’ experiences... , M.Ed. (Educational Psychology)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Morrison, Karlita
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Posttraumatic growth , Positive psychology , Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/479002 , uj:43309
- Description: Abstract: The prevalence of potential traumatic events in South Africa has been found to be eminently high (de la Porte & Davids, 2016). This is due to a history of political violence and an ongoing tendency of interpersonal, community-based, socio-economic violence (Atwoli et al., 2013). Exposure to trauma challenges one’s previous assumptions on conceptions of predictability and contest preconceived views of the world (Tedeschi & Blevins, 2015). After trauma-exposure, individuals attempt to conceptualise the event and engage in cognitive processes to reconstruct their assumptive world and recover from trauma (Cann et al., 2011). The physiological effects of trauma are illuminated by drawing on Stephen Porges’s polyvagal theory (PVT) (Porges, 2011). Recent shifts literature has begun to emphasise the potential to perceive benefits and growth following exposure to trauma which is referred to as post-traumatic growth (PTG) (Tedeschi & Kilmer, 2005). Conventional therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic interventions have been found to support trauma survivors in South Africa (Kaminer & Eagle, 2017). However, the lack of professionals trained in these approaches are extremely limited and alternative methods needs to be explored on, especially those that can be delivered in a group setting by a non-professional (Bruckner et al., 2011; Mendelhall et al., as cited in Kaminer & Eagle, 2017). This generic qualitative study design was implemented to enquire about trauma survivors’ experiences of Kundalini yoga (KY) in the promotion of PTG. The seven participants were identified through a non-profit organisation in Alexandra, that is a densely populated township known for high rates of unemployment and crime in Johannesburg (Crime Stats SA, 2018; Ebrahim, 2019). The data was collected in the form of individual semi-structured interviews after which thematic analysis was implemented to interpret the participants’ experiences... , M.Ed. (Educational Psychology)
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