A Psychological Capital (PsyCap) Integrated Group Counselling Model for Fostering Self-Development in Chinese College Students
List of Authors
Kartini Ilias, Wen He, Xiao Liang, Xiaojun Guo
Keyword
Psychological Capital (PsyCap), Group Counselling, Self-Development, China, College Students
Abstract
Chinese College students often face heightened psychological and academic stress, underscoring the need for interventions that strengthen internal resources rather than solely alleviate symptoms. Drawing from Psychological Capital (PsyCap) theory, Snyder’s Hope Theory, Bandura’s Self-efficacy Theory, and Yalom’s Group Process Principles, this article presents a structured eight-session group counselling model that integrates cognitive-behavioral and positive psychology techniques within an experiential peer setting, to promote self-development among first-year Chinese university students. Each session progresses from self-discovery to goal-setting (hope), mastery experiences (efficacy), coping and reframing tasks (resilience and optimism), while promoting relationship, trust building, and future integration. At the same time, this paper also contributes a theory-driven facilitation framework that bridges research and practice in higher-education counselling, to foster flourishing, resilience, and academic adjustment among college students. Nevertheless, as a facilitation manual, the present article does not include empirical data or statistical validation. While many empirical research has supported the program’s rationale in improving students’ well-being, reducing anxiety, and increasing positive affect; future research should empirically evaluate this model through randomized and longitudinal designs to validate its impact on sustained well-being and academic outcomes, especially in the Chinese context. Future studies should also incorporate mixed-methods evaluation, combining quantitative scales with qualitative feedback to capture students lived experiences, self-reflection, and perceived growth, offering richer insight into mechanisms of change, consistent with recommendations from positive psychology intervention research.