Resilience and well-being in the Caribbean: Findings from a randomized controlled trial of a culturally adapted multi-component positive psychology intervention

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of a culturally adapted multi-component positive psychology intervention (MPPI) on resilience. We conducted a randomized controlled trial among 158 employees of multi-ethnic origin in Paramaribo, Suriname. The participants were assigned to a 6-session intervention program or a wait-list control group. Data were collected at baseline, post-intervention, and at 3-months follow-up. Strict guidelines were followed to minimize risk of bias and to assure a high methodological quality. Analysis of covariance revealed large significant improvements on resilience, mental well-being, and negative affect, moderate improvements on depression and positive affect, and small improvements on anxiety compared to control. The intervention was not more beneficial on stress, financial distress, and psychological flexibility than control. In conclusion, a culturally adapted MPPI may be a promising intervention to increase resilience and well-being among healthy adults with a multi-ethnic background in the Caribbean.