Buring, Zohra Isobel (2024) Understanding Well-being in Academia Through Self-Determination Theory. Bachelor thesis, Psychology.
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Abstract
Student mental health is a major concern, with research emphasizing the need for effective interventions. Positive psychology (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000) now focuses on promoting well-being as a preventative measure rather than post-problem treatment. However, a clear definition of well-being in academia is lacking, which hinders the development of a targeted intervention. This study explores students’ conceptualization of well-being in academia from a positive psychology perspective, utilizing Self-Determination Theory (SDT; Ryan & Deci, 2000). Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve students from diverse cultural backgrounds and enrolled in different years of the BSc. Psychology program at the University of Groningen. Analysis of the interview transcripts was both inductive and deductive, utilizing a thematic analysis and a value-coding approach through an SDT lens. Results indicated a dynamic model of well-being, confirming the relevance of SDT’s basic psychological needs (BPN; autonomy, competence, and relatedness) within academic well-being. Furthermore, this study provides a deeper understanding of the BPN in academia, their interrelations, and the impact of the university environment on these needs. The components of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in academia are discussed, and the relevant influencing factors from the university environment are identified per need, summarized in a model. Finally, based on these findings, tentative suggestions are made on how the university could further foster students’ BPN. Keywords: well-being, students, university, positive psychology, Self-Determination Theory (SDT)
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor) |
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| Supervisor name: | Ballato, L. |
| Degree programme: | Psychology |
| Differentiation route: | None [Bachelor Psychology] |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Jul 2024 11:20 |
| Last Modified: | 19 Jul 2024 11:20 |
| URI: | http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4012 |
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