Strengths in Struggle: Character Strengths Use and Psychological Well-Being in the Slums of the Philippines

Objectives: Character strengths use has been studied in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) societies, where it is related to happiness, resilience, and reduced distress. However, this relationship in harsh living conditions remains unstudied. This study aims to examine the relationship between character strengths use and psychological well-being among slum dwellers in the Philippines, where harsh living conditions can create severe psychological challenges. Methods: A correlational analysis was conducted in a slum community in Cavite City, Philippines, with 120 participants completing self-report questionnaires, including the Strengths Use Scale (SUS), Flourishing Scale (FS), and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Correlation and regression analyses examined whether strengths use predicts psychological well-being while controlling for psychological distress and demographic factors such as family monthly income. Results: A significant positive correlation was found between strengths use and psychological well-being (r = 0.39, p < 0.01), and hierarchical linear regression analysis confirmed that SUS significantly predicted FS (β = 0.37, 95% CI = [0.08, 0.22]). Despite experiencing high levels of psychological distress (Mean = 27.22, SD = 6.78), participants demonstrated relatively higher FS scores compared to more privileged Filipino student samples. These findings suggest that character strengths use act as psychological resources even in challenging environments. Conclusions: The study supports the Dual-Factor Model of Mental Health, showing that well-being and ill-being can coexist. Strengths use may help slum dwellers cope with ongoing challenges, highlighting the potential of strengths-based interventions to foster resilience and well-being in high-adversity urban slum settings. Future research should explore how family and cultural values support well-being in difficult environments.