Human Flourishing in Institutions
This programme aims to research the functioning of individuals, relations, and institutions (on a continuum varying from flourishing to languishing) and its antecedents, outcomes, and utility. Working from the capability approach and positive organisational scholarship, and considering the precariousness inherent in modern society, the research programme investigates the optimal functioning of individuals, relationships, and institutions. Flourishing refers to optimal functioning as indicated by positive emotions, a positive affect balance, satisfaction with life (and life domains), engagement, self-determination (and satisfaction of the needs for autonomy, competence. and relatedness), meaning and purpose, learning agility, positive relations, and social well-being. Languishing indicates the opposite of these types of functioning. The programme aims to develop and evaluate interventions to optimise capability, flourishing, and utility.
Recent publications
2025Cracks in the JD-R model? The failure of strengths use, job crafting, and home-work spillover to support wellbeing during COVID-19.
Van Zyl, L. E., Cornelisse, M. A., Le Blanc, P., & Rothmann, S.
Frontiers in Psychology2025Technology and well-being: Perspectives from the capability approach.
Rothmann, S., Greeff, J., & Bunt, L.
In A. van Niekerk, N. Harry, & M. Coetzee (Eds.), Unlocking sustainable well-being in the digital age: Human well-being research and policy making2025The identification and structure of strengths within the LGBTQIA+ community: A qualitative and empowered thematic investigation.
Klibert, J., DiGregorio, N., Houseman, H., Shields, M., Murphy, D.E., & van Zyl, L.
International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology2027Shattering the glass ceiling: Challenges and strategies for women managers in steel manufacturing.
Lala, A., Coxen, L., & Stander, M.W.
In M. Coetzee, I.L. Potgieter, & N. Ferreira (Eds.), Psychology of retention: Theory, research and practiceMembers
