Associations of orientation to promote good in challenging situations with distress and well-being: Multi-study evidence from three non-Western Longitudinal samples

Abstract

We examine whether an orientation to promote good serves as a potential buffer against distress and facilitator of well-being outcomes in three non-Western samples with a recent history of conflict (Indonesia, Colombia, Mexico) and across three different time frames (1, 4 and 12 months). Longitudinal surveys provided data for cross-lagged panel modelling. A series of sensitivity analyses provided evidence for the robustness of results. Persons with an orientation to promote good reported greater well-being 1 month and 4 months post-assessment and reduced distress 1 month and 4 months post-assessment. The effects, with larger effect sizes, were also found for reverse associations. We did not find evidence of associations assessed at the 12-month interval with the exception of a negative association between an orientation to promote good and subsequent life satisfaction and happiness. Orientation to promote good may be relevant for population's mental health and well-being over the short- and medium-term.