The effects of PSD on the wellbeing of students : listening to University students and recent graduates

Abstract

Personal and social development (PSD) was introduced in Malta in the early eighties to help address concerns regarding wellbeing of adolescents. This study mainly explored how PSD helped participants in their adolescent years. It also explored whether these participants felt that PSD experienced in secondary schooling is still helping them in adulthood by providing skills which address adult life challenges. The Research questions begged a qualitative research design and data was collected through semi-structured interviews with four University students and two recent graduates. The data was analyzed using Thematic Analysis. Results indicate that PSD was the most helpful in adolescence, provided that they had a professional teacher who possessed qualities and skills, while created a positive and safe atmosphere. PSD enhanced their sense of wellbeing as it addressed their self-esteem. Self-esteem was enhanced by various factors. This study indicated that although certain skills learnt during PSD were internalized in adulthood and participants found them useful in addressing today’s challenges, guidance and strengthening of skills in adulthood are elements which are valued by adults. Recommendations include having PSD sessions in post-secondary education in a context where participants noted that they felt independent and know what skills they lacked and wanted to address. Since they valued guidance, recommendations include allowing students to choose from a variety of topics or skills which are useful in adulthood. Further studies regarding skills useful in adulthood are therefore recommended. Recommendations for professional teachers who possess skills and further studies on co-ed in relation to PSD is also suggested.