University of Twente unveils a new app that helps people train in positivity during challenging times

The app is made up of six parts, each incorporating an introductory video, a written explanation and a number of exercises. The exercises focus on six themes: joy, trust in yourself, trust in the future, kindness, resilience and connection. The exercises are based on positive psychology and have proven their value in scientific research. The app keeps track of the exercises that the users complete. When they have done an exercise for three days, they receive automated information about their progress in developing a skill. The app’s homepage features a maze. As they complete the exercises, participants travel through the maze and finally arrive at the centre, at their own strength. The participants are sent a daily reminder and an encouragement to do the exercises, which take around 10-15 minutes a day to complete.

Positivity does not mean a complete lack of sadness or worry in your life. What positivity does mean is the ability to experience pleasure, meaning and purpose even when times are tough. There is already considerable evidence that positive psychology can improve well-being and mental health. Previous research carried out at the University of Twente shows that a programme of exercises based on positive psychology can greatly enhance people’s mental sense of well-being (Schotanus-Dijkstra et al., 2018). A selection from these exercises is now available on the app and the researchers believe it has the potential for use in a range of contexts: among students, in a healthcare setting or in the workplace.

The University of Twente now wants to discover whether the free Training in Positivity app will also be effective for people suffering from mild depression, stress, mental fatigue and other psychological complaints. People can sign up to take part in this study. Half of the participants will be able to start using the app after completing a number of questionnaires, and the other half will begin four weeks later. This will be decided by drawing lots. For more information and to register, visit the website.

Media contact:

DRS. M.M.J. VAN HILLEGERSBERG – HOFMANS (MARTINE)
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m.vanhillegersberg@utwente.nl
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SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF TWENTE