University of Twente Student Theses
An Experience Sampling Method Intervention on Acts of Kindness for Strong and Weak Social Ties : A Randomized Controlled Trial
Worm, Maria (2022) An Experience Sampling Method Intervention on Acts of Kindness for Strong and Weak Social Ties : A Randomized Controlled Trial.
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| Abstract: | Literature on performing acts of kindness (AOKs) displays conflicting perspectives on its efficacy for improving mental wellbeing. One reason for this might be that the underlying mechanisms of AOK interventions remain largely unexplored. The main aim of this study was to better understand the effectiveness and the underlying mechanisms of performing AOKs. The social tie with the beneficiary of an AOK, the effort, which is put into an AOK, and the motives of the benefactor when performing the AOK were studied in relation to each other and to mental wellbeing. A single-blind randomized controlled design in combination with an Experience Sampling Methods (ESM) intervention was implemented, utilizing three conditions: AOKs towards strong social ties (n = 11), AOKs towards weak social ties (n = 12), and tracking emotions (n = 11). Dutch and German university students were recruited for this study (n = 34). Outcome measures were mental wellbeing (MHC-SF), perceived stress (PSS), depressive symptoms and anxiety (HADS), as well as positive and negative affect. Results demonstrated that tracking emotions and performing AOKs both lead to improved mental wellbeing. The social tie did not make a difference for any health outcome. A stronger social tie led to more effort but did not influence motives. Effort, motives, and their interaction did not affect any health outcome. Future studies should further investigate the effectiveness of AOK interventions compared to other interventions, and additional research is needed to gain more insights into the underlying mechanisms of performing AOKs. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/93505 |
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