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

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 unclear. This study examines 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. 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). Regression and partial correlation analyses examined whether strengths use predicts psychological well-being while controlling for psychological distress and demographic factors such as family monthly income.