Competence: To Be+(plus). Studying Late Adolescents’ Perceptions of a Group Intervention Program to Promote Positive Development

Researchers and professionals in the field of health and youth development have shown a growing interest in promoting positive youth development, working to create, implement, and evaluate strategies, opportunities, and intervention programs aimed at this goal. In this study, we present the group psychological intervention program “Competence: To Be+”, designed to promote positive development in late adolescents, focusing on positive emotions, character strengths, and optimal experiences. Perceptions of the program were analyzed using a qualitative approach based on participants’ reports. The results showed that participants considered the program a positive and rewarding experience, with consistent positive feedback across different sessions of the program, suggesting that the intervention was perceived to foster flourishing by aligning with the developmental needs and preferences of its participants. Results also indicated that aspects related to personal changes and improvements, including learning, participation in various activities, and the opportunity to relate and socialize, were significant and valued by the participants. Findings highlight the significance of the sessions and topics covered for the adolescents, recognizing them as relevant to their growth and strengthening their interpersonal relationships, reinforcing the importance of the Competence: To Be+ program in fostering essential skills for positive youth development.