Enhancing Psychological Well-Being Through Experiential Learning in Self-Compassion and Learned Optimism Among Malaysian Adults

Abstract

While mental health awareness has grown in recent years, many adults still lack the practical understanding needed to apply positive psychology principles, often undermining their emotional resilience through perfectionism, pessimism, and self-criticism. This study explores the awareness, understanding, and application of two key constructs: self-compassion and learned optimism, among Malaysian adults following a culturally sensitive intervention. The study involved 20 women aged 18 to 40 who participated in a two-part intervention: an in-person experiential workshop designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and lived emotional experience. Using a pre-post design with a follow-up phase, researchers collected data through questionnaires and reflective responses to assess both practical and psychological shifts. Quantitative findings revealed significant improvements in participants' knowledge scores, alongside modest shifts in their underlying beliefs and attitudes. Qualitatively, participants reported successfully integrating practical coping tools, particularly the Self-Compassion Break and the ABCDE model, into their daily routines, leading to improved emotional regulation and heightened awareness of internal self-talk patterns. Furthermore, participants naturally incorporated cultural and spiritual elements, such as Tawakkul (reliance on Allah), reinforcing the importance of tailoring positive psychology interventions to specific cultural contexts. Although participants acknowledged challenges in sustaining these new habits long-term, they showed increased openness and a strong intention to continue applying the learned strategies. Ultimately, this study highlights the feasibility and relevance of brief, experiential workshops in fostering psychological well-being, emotional awareness, and self-reflective growth in adult populations.