Xin Ru Tan
Over the years, studies showed that flourishers have high levels of resilience and productivity. The likelihood of developing mental illnesses and having suicidal ideation were also the least prevalent among flourishers. Contrastingly, languishers experience more negative emotions like emptiness and hopelessness. Despite the government’s efforts in building psychological flourishing (PF) through positive psychological approaches, depression affects approximately half a million people in Malaysia, especially among university students. Based on the broaden-and-build theory, this research aims to examine the relationships between gratitude, materialism, prosocial behavior, and PF. A total of 199 Malaysian undergraduates aged between 19 to 26 (Male = 63, Female = 136) were recruited through convenience sampling. Using a cross-sectional design with a survey method, the Gratitude Questionnaire- Six Item Form, Material Values Scale – Short Form. Prosociality Scale, and Flourishing Scale were administered. Pearson correlation analyses showed that gratitude and prosocial behaviour were positively associated with PF. Interestingly, materialism was not significantly associated with PF. Multiple regression analyses indicated that prosocial behaviour was the strongest predictor of PF. Ultimately, this paper illustrates the significance of nurturing undergraduates’ strengths and resources to encourage prosocial behaviour and gratitude, both of which promote flourishing – a state of lasting contentment.