Co-vitality, life satisfaction and civic engagement among college studetns

Doug Smith
Craig Hase
Mental Health Counseling Second Year Cohort
Brayton Tompkins

Today's colleges and universities are oriented toward enhancing both academic and psychological well-being among students. The unifying term "co-vitality" refers to the cumulative effects of positive psychological traits and dispositions, social and academic support, and opportunities for engaged learning upon students' overall well-being. The research presented here explores the relationship between co-vitality, life satisfaction, and civic engagement among undergraduate students at SOU and other institutions in the region. Preliminary findings suggest strong correlations between individual dispositions such as compassion, zest, and optimism and willingness to engage in a broad range of civic-minded activities. Involvement in such activities also serves to strengthen students' commitment to school and positively impacts psychological well-being.