A Comparative Study of the Effectiveness of Psychological Resilience and Positive Thinking Training on Psychological Well-being and Adaptation of Imam Ali University Students

Military and law enforcement professions are characterized by high stress and specific complexities, which often lead to psychological challenges, physical risks, separation from family, and living in difficult conditions. Therefore, individuals in high-risk professions such as the military and police are more susceptible to psychological disorders. This research aimed to compare the effectiveness of psychological resilience training and positive thinking training on the psychological well-being and adaptation of Imam Ali University students. This research was an applied study with a pretest-posttest control group design. The statistical population consisted of first-year university students. The sample included 21 participants for each experimental group and 20 participants for the control group, selected randomly and assigned to their respective groups. The data collection tools included the 84-item Ryff Psychological Well-being Questionnaire and the 160-item Bell Adjustment Inventory. The data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). The results showed that both psychological resilience training and positive thinking training led to improvements in psychological well-being and adaptation at the p < 0.01 level. Furthermore, in comparing the two intervention types, psychological resilience training was found to be more effective. The results were replicated in a three-month follow-up assessment. Imam Ali University students will serve as commanders and leaders in the near future. Considering the key role of human resources in military and law enforcement organizations and the importance of their psychological well-being, it is essential for the university's education department to play a proactive role in improving the psychological well-being and adaptation of these students through precise planning and the implementation of psychological resilience and positive thinking training programs.