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Thriving on Strengths: Effects of a Strengths Intervention for Younger and Older Teachers

Author

Listed:
  • Valesca Y. Tobias

    (Tilburg University)

  • Marianne Woerkom

    (Tilburg University)

  • Maria Christina Meyers

    (Tilburg University)

  • Piety Runhaar

    (Wageningen University and Research)

  • Arnold B. Bakker

    (Erasmus University Rotterdam
    University of Johannesburg)

Abstract

The teaching profession is characterized by high demands and teachers who thrive are better able to navigate their demanding context than teachers who survive. Based on theories on strengths use we propose that strengths interventions which help teachers to identify, use, and develop their strengths can enhance their thriving (vitality and learning) which enables them to perform better. In addition, based on the socioemotional selective theory we propose that strengths interventions are especially beneficial for older teachers because it fits their goals and skills. We conducted a quasi-experimental study, in which 152 teachers and their team leaders participated in a strengths intervention. Longitudinal survey data indicated that the strengths intervention contributed to older teachers’ (≥ 46 years old) vitality, which in turn, contributed to their performance. No significant effects were found for younger teachers. We discuss the implications of our study for older teachers.

Suggested Citation

  • Valesca Y. Tobias & Marianne Woerkom & Maria Christina Meyers & Piety Runhaar & Arnold B. Bakker, 2023. "Thriving on Strengths: Effects of a Strengths Intervention for Younger and Older Teachers," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 24(3), pages 1121-1144, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:24:y:2023:i:3:d:10.1007_s10902-023-00638-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-023-00638-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Denise Quinlan & Nicola Swain & Dianne Vella-Brodrick, 2012. "Character Strengths Interventions: Building on What We Know for Improved Outcomes," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 13(6), pages 1145-1163, December.
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    7. Marine Miglianico & Philippe Dubreuil & Paule Miquelon & Arnold B. Bakker & Charles Martin-Krumm, 2020. "Strength Use in the Workplace: A Literature Review," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 21(2), pages 737-764, February.
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    Cited by:

    1. Valesca Y. Tobias & Marianne Woerkom & Maria Christina Meyers & Robin Bauwens, 2024. "Coaching Based on Signature Strengths or Lesser Strengths? The Effects of Two Strengths Spotting Interventions on Managerial Coaching Behavior," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 25(5), pages 1-24, June.
    2. Shiri Lavy & Marian Abu Ahmad & Eman Naama, 2024. "Let Them Shine: Associations of Schools’ Support for Strengths Use with Teachers’ Sense of Meaning, Engagement, and Satisfaction," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-22, May.

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