Abstract

REPPOLD, Caroline; D’AZEVEDO, Luiza  and  NORONHA, Ana Paula. Assessment strategies of character strengths. Psic., Saúde & Doenças [online]. 2021, vol.22, n.1, pp.50-61.  Epub Apr 30, 2021. ISSN 1645-0086.  https://doi.org/10.15309/21psd220106.

In Positive Psychology, character strengths are defined as the positive characteristics of human beings, which have a moral value. To systematize studies on the topic, Peterson and Seligman established, initially a model of 24 forces and six virtues. From this theoretical model, researches have shown that the development of these positive characteristics is related to the increase in indicators of well-being, engagement, and personal achievement, depending on the focus of the intervention and the measuring instrument used. The objectives of this study were: a) to carry out a narrative review on the main instruments that assess the character strengths and demonstrate evidence of validity, and b) to present some of the interventions focused on strengths that demonstrate effectiveness. In relation to the instruments, the review presents cultural differences in the assessment of strengths. Regarding the reported interventions, it is identified that the development of strengths enhances, above all, subjective well-being. It is hoped, with this study, to equip health and education professionals about a promising construct in the development of positive indicators of well-being. In addition, it is estimated that the review will stimulate the development of future empirical researches on the character strengths in different contexts and age groups.

Keywords : psychological assessment; positive psychology; character strengths.

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