Can strengths-based interventions be used to support the financial wellbeing of tertiary students in financial need during covid-19?

Abstract

Positive Psychology explores how professionals and individuals, including financial counsellors, can make life “better”, instead of merely alleviating suffering (Seligman & Csikszenzentmihalyi, 2000). It is acknowledged that some financial problems are insurmountable, and students can lack motivation due to continual disadvantage, discrimination, overwhelming circumstances and poverty. Positive Psychology encourages professionals to seek out the strengths of character demonstrated by our clients; to acknowledge past achievements and encourage and build greater self-determination and a sustainable financial future. Positive Psychology research is evidencebased and applied in many settings (Lyubomirsky & Sin, 2009). Financial counsellors do not profess to be psychologists, but insight fostered by psychological knowledge and interventions may enlighten our engagement, and/or facilitate referrals to other professionals. Clients experiencing financial difficulty often understand their issues best and may possess strengths to endure hardship and move towards a sustainable financial future. Some practical tools are offered to add to professional practice and to offer some hope during the COVID-19 pandemic and into the recovery period.