From Career to Contentment: A Coping Strategy to Enhance Post-Retirement Happiness Among Indonesian State-Owned Enterprise Employees

Indonesian employees in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) often face psychological challenges after retirement due to strong emotional ties to their workplace. This study examined the effectiveness of coping strategy training in enhancing happiness among retired SOE personnel. Using a field-based randomized pretest–posttest design with a comparison group, 556 retirees were assigned to a training group ( n = 278) or a comparison group ( n = 278). The intervention integrated problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies, including laughter techniques and relaxation. Happiness was measured using the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire at pretest, posttest (1 month after the intervention), and follow-up assessments at 2 and 3 months, reflecting a longitudinal design to capture sustained effects. Mixed ANOVA results indicate a significant and sustained increase in happiness among participants who received the training. Qualitative findings showed improvements in emotional regulation, meaning-making, social connectedness, and engagement in daily activities, highlighting the potential of structured coping programs to support positive ageing.