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Fuat AYDOĞDU

Fuat AYDOĞDU

Expert Psychological Counselor

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School Counselors’ Perspectives on Positive Psychology Interventions: A Qualitative Study

İlayda Atıcı, Dilara Ateş Kocataş, İlkem Başaran Şahan, Ratibe Özdemir, Aslı Uz Baş

Research Article Volume 7 Issue 3 31 October 2025 Pages 278-307 10.47793/hp.1763342
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Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore school counselors’ perceptions, experiences, and implementation practices regarding positive psychology interventions in educational settings. Employing a phenomenological design within a qualitative paradigm data were collected from 14 counselors working in various school levels and types in the Aegean region of Turkey, selected through maximum variation sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that counselors conceptualized positive psychology interventions as approaches emphasizing individuals’ strengths, well-being, and solution-focused perspectives, integrating elements such as mindfulness and compassion. While some participants reported using techniques like metaphor-based activities, group sessions, and individual counseling—mainly with students—many lacked formal training in the field. Counselors perceived these interventions as enhancing self-awareness, self-confidence, emotional regulation, empathy, and academic motivation, though sustainability and student engagement were identified as challenges. Structural (time, space, staffing), institutional (policy constraints, limited administrative support), and cultural (academic performance focus) barriers were reported. Recommendations to enhance effectiveness included Ministry of Education-supported programs, in-service training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and context-appropriate intervention materials.

Keywords

positive psychology interventions school counseling educational interventions
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