Come into Bloom: A Grounded Theory of Well-Being among Filipino University Students

Most studies in positive psychology focused on psychological factors and their impact on mental health based on Western models and quantitative approaches (Datu et al., 2018). Thus, there is a need to develop further the knowledge and application of concepts and theoretical models grounded in the lived experiences of the Filipino population. The present study utilized a grounded theory method to build a Filipino-based well-being model among university students. The BLOOMS Model of Well-being proposed that holistic well-being comprises five interconnected dimensions (Academic, Psycho-emotional, Physical, Social, and Spiritual). The study found that personal factors, social influences, and unexpected life events influenced well-being. Also, the study suggested that the following strategies enhanced well-being: building, leveraging, owning, opening, molding, and self-enhancing practices, leading to holistic growth. Data from this study can serve as a resource for further exploration of positive psychology and developing mental health policies and programs for university students.