The Use of Positive Psychology in Studies with Healthcare Professionals: Scoping Review and Implications for Professional Support

Twenty-five years after the inception of Positive Psychology, its principles are still perceived to be underutilized in addressing working conditions or providing care to healthcare professionals. This article aims to synthesize evidence on the use of Positive Psychology in supporting healthcare workers. A detailed data search and analysis strategy was employed to identify scientific evidence that could answer the following guiding question: What empirical evidence is available regarding the effects of applying Positive Psychology principles or interventions to the mental health and well-being of healthcare professionals? Ten articles were selected and analyzed using the META-CORE model (Meta-level Conceptual, Operational, Reflective Evaluation). Based on the main findings of the ten reviewed studies, three themes were developed: (1) promotion of emotional and psychological well-being, gathering evidence that reflects subjective changes among healthcare professionals; (2) strengthening of personal resources and virtues through a process of self-perception and self-assessment within the work context; and (3) professional appreciation and a positive organizational climate. This scoping review contributes to strengthening the theoretical foundation of current attention to the situation of healthcare workers, aligning more clearly with the conceptual bases of Positive Psychology and its concern with mental health and the growing imperative to address contemporary challenges.