Graduation Year

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Ph.D.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Degree Granting Department

Psychology

Major Professor

Vicky Phares, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Kemesha Gabbidon,, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Eun Sook Kim, Ph.D.

Committee Member

James McHale, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Wendy Rote, Ph.D.

Keywords

early life influences, flourishing, human functioning, latent profile analysis, longitudinal cohort study, person-centered analysis

Abstract

The Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality estimates that 79.4% of U.S. adults will remain free from mental illness each year, but this does not necessarily mean they will enjoy positive psychological health and well-being. Well-being has been associated with positive outcomes such as greater health, longevity, work productivity, and increased social engagement. Thus, it is important for researchers to understand factors contributing to the development of well-being and optimal functioning. The current study used latent profile analysis to classify individuals based on their levels of well-being at ages 23 to 26 years and explored functioning indexes assessed when individuals were 10 to 12 years old as predictors of these profiles. The findings revealed five distinct well-being profiles, demonstrating the complex interactions between positive feelings and positive functioning. Findings from this study contribute to a nuanced understanding of well-being development, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches to enhance well-being across diverse profiles of individuals as they progress through life's stages.

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