17080 Testing the Broaden-and-Build Theory: Hope as a Mediator Between Positive Emotion and Resilience among Filipino Emerging Adults

R2a-3

Abstract

Fredrickson's broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions posits that positive emotions such as joy, interest, and contentment serve an evolutionary purpose by broadening people's momentary thought-action repertoires and building enduring psychological resources, including resilience and well-being. While the theory has received empirical support in various populations, much of the evidence stems from Western contexts, with limited application to emerging adults in collectivist, developing societies such as the Philippines. Therefore, this study aimed to test the theory's central assumption by examining whether hope mediates the relationship between positive emotion and resilience among emerging adults. A cross-sectional survey was conducted online among 379 Filipino emerging adults aged 18-25 years. Participants completed the Adult Hope Scale (AHS), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), and PANAS Scale. The study underwent an ethics review with a protocol number SLU-REC-SS 2022-077. Data were analyzed using mediation analysis. The results supported the basic assumption of the theory and found that hope significantly mediates the relationship between positive emotion and resilience. The study offers culturally relevant insights into the psychological development of Filipino emerging adults. The study emphasized how feeling positive emotions can broaden an individual's thoughts, which in turn helps widen perspectives about the future. Individuals who have high hopes are equipped to face trials. The study findings can strengthen policies in designing programs or interventions, particularly promoting positive emotions among emerging adults for better well-being. Moreover, future researchers may examine other mediating variables, such as grit and perceived social support, influencing the relationship between positive emotion and resilience.