Exploring the Variations in Mental Well-Being: Grit and Growth Mindset Using Latent Profile Analysis

This study aims to identify latent profiles using indicators of K-Grit (persistence effort, passion-enjoyment, passion-meaning) and growth mindset. Furthermore, we test whether these profiles differ in mental well-being. An online self-report survey was conducted with 535 college students aged 19-31 (240 males, 295 females), assessing K-Grit, growth mindset, and mental well-being, A 3-step latent profile analysis revealed four profiles: Growth-Oriented(15.5%; above-average scores in all factors), Average (55.8%; all scores at the mean level), Low-Growth (23.3%; all scores below average), and Meaning-Deficient (5.4%; all scores are the lowest in general, especially the lowest passion-meaning). Significant differences were found in mental well-being among the four latent groups, with higher levels of grit and growth mindset associated with greater mental well-being. In particular, the Meaning-Deficient profile revealed the lowest overall well-being. Our findings emphasize the necessity of finding purpose and meaning in one's life to promote better mental well-being. This study lays the foundation for developing intervention strategies aimed at enhancing the mental health of college students.