| This study attempted to replicate previous findings that two week-long, internet-based positive interventions were helpful in increasing happiness and decreasing depressive symptoms for up to 6 months in the general population (Seligman, Steen, Park & Peterson, 2005). These results were generally replicated here, although the benefits were more modest, with participants experiencing significant gains compared to their own baselines but not to the placebo exercise control group. A second control condition was included which controlled for valence, and was as effective as the two positive interventions examined.;The usefulness of these interventions in relation to neediness and self-criticism, two vulnerability markers for depression, was also examined (Blatt, Zohar, Quinlan, Zuroff, & Mongrain, 1995; Rude & Burnham, 1995; Mongrain & Leather, 2006). Neediness was related to increased responsiveness to the exercises. Self-criticism alone had no effect on outcome. Further research on self-help interventions for those vulnerable to depression is warranted. |
