The Third Half: A Pilot Study Using Evidence-Based Psychological Strategies to Promote Well-Being among Doctoral
Anna Muro1,2, Iván Bonilla1,3, Claudia Tejada-Gallardo4
1Department of Basic, Developmental and Educational Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|December 23, 2022
Summary
Doctoral students experienced improved emotional well-being and reduced psychological distress after participating in the evidence-based "Third Half" program. This pilot study highlights the need for accessible well-being initiatives in higher education.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Higher Education Studies
- Public Health
Background:
- Doctoral students face higher psychological distress than the general population.
- European higher education policies advocate for well-being programs for doctoral candidates.
- Evidence-based well-being programs are not widely implemented in public universities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a pilot well-being program for doctoral candidates.
- To assess the impact of an intervention based on evidence-based practices.
- To promote well-being and reduce psychological distress among young researchers.
Main Methods:
- A pre-post pilot study involving 25 doctoral students.
- A six-session program incorporating outdoor exposure, physical activity, gamification, mentoring, and positive psychology.
- Intervention structured around evidence-based well-being promotion criteria.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in emotional well-being indicators were observed.
- Participants reported a decrease in psychological distress post-intervention.
- The program, named 'Third Half', demonstrated positive pilot outcomes.
Conclusions:
- The pilot program shows promise for enhancing doctoral student well-being.
- Further research and replication are needed to confirm the program's impact.
- Findings support the development of cost-effective interventions for healthier academic workplaces.
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