Pilot investigation of an activity-based approach to building hardiness

BMJ Mil Health. 2023 Aug;169(4):350-354. doi: 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2020-001661. Epub 2021 Aug 19.

Abstract

Background: The purpose was to describe an activity-based psychological hardiness training programme delivered by an occupational therapist and examine its acceptability and effectiveness in improving hardiness.

Method: Participants (N=28) completed the 6-hour programme, which included pre/post-programme completion of the Dispositional Resilience Scale-15 (DRS-15) and a Program Evaluation Form. Paired t-tests were used to determine differences between pre-training and post-training scores on the DRS-15.

Results: Results showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in total hardiness, commitment, and control scores on the DRS-15 from pre-training to post-training and good-excellent ratings for all categories on the Program Evaluation Form.

Conclusions: This programme evaluation described an occupational therapist's role in providing an activity-based psychological hardiness training programme and provided preliminary support for the acceptability of an activity-based approach to training psychological hardiness for service members.

Keywords: education & training (see medical education & training); medical education & training; rehabilitation medicine.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Pilot Projects
  • Resilience, Psychological*