The effectiveness and mechanisms of a brief online best-possible-self intervention among young adults from mainland China

The best-possible-self (BPS) intervention has been shown to promote well-being, optimism, and positive affect. However, most research was conducted in Western countries, and its effectiveness in people from Eastern countries has been questioned. In this study, we examined the effect of BPS on young adults from mainland China. We also investigated the moderating effect of cultural orientation, self-efficacy, and trait optimism and the mediating effect of state optimism and goal-related cognitions. Seventy participants were randomly assigned to the BPS or the control condition. In contrast to previous studies, the BPS did not lead to higher positive affect or well-being in Chinese, but rather to decreased negative affect and negative future expectations. No significant moderating or mediating effect was found. This study indicated that the effects of BPS might differ across cultures. Future studies may consider a longer session and qualitative analysis.