Effects of positive education intervention on growth mindset and resilience among boarding middle school adolescents in China: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction: The impact of a growth mindset and resilience on boarding middle school adolescents has received increasing attention, yet how to effectively intervene remains underexplored. This study examines whether a positive education intervention based on the PERMA model improves growth mindset and resilience among Chinese boarding middle school adolescents. Methods: A randomized controlled trial with pre- and post-tests compared an experimental group receiving a 12-week PERMA-based program (n1 = 84) to a control group receiving routine mental health education (n2 = 83). Results: Adolescents in the intervention reported significantly improved growth mindset and resilience. Discussion: Compared with the control group, resilience significantly increased. Findings indicate positive education is a promising approach to enhance boarding adolescents’ growth mindset and resilience.

Gao Jianping, Samsilah Roslan, Kim Geok Soh, Zeinab Zaremohzzabieh