A PERMA model approach to well-being: a psychometric properties study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Adolescent Development
• Educational Psychology

Background:

• Psychological well-being is crucial for adolescent success across various life domains.
• The PERMA model, measuring positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment, is a key subjective well-being framework.
• Understanding factors influencing adolescent well-being in diverse cultural contexts, like Qatar, is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the psychometric properties of the PERMA subjective well-being measure in a Qatari high school student population.
• To investigate the associations between socioeconomic status, academic performance, internalizing/externalizing behaviors, gender, age, and overall well-being.
• To refine the PERMA model structure based on empirical data from the study sample.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 502 high school students from public schools in Qatar participated.
• Psychometric properties of the PERMA model were assessed using statistical analysis.
• Multivariate analysis was employed to examine relationships between demographic, behavioral, academic factors and well-being scores.

Main Results:

• The initial five-factor PERMA structure did not fit the data; a refined one-factor model was applicable.
• Socioeconomic status and academic performance were positively associated with well-being.
• Internalizing and externalizing behaviors were negatively associated with well-being; gender and age showed no significant effects.

Conclusions:

• The PERMA model, adapted to a one-factor structure, can measure adolescent well-being in Qatar.
• Interventions focused on socioeconomic status, academic achievement, and behavioral issues within schools are recommended for improving student well-being.
• Targeted school-based interventions can effectively enhance psychological well-being among adolescents.