The lived experience of self-identifying character strengths through coaching: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

The study aimed to expand the understanding of the experience of people who self-identify their character strengths. The data came from semi-structured interviews held after a coaching intervention using strengths cards. Analysis using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) revealed four themes: Identifying strengths is instinctive, yet complex; experiencing the subjective self; identifying strengths is multi-faceted; and strengths are brought into awareness. The findings suggest that the lived experience of self-identifying strengths is complex and positive. This study may provide coaches and positive psychology practitioners insights about how strengths identification tools and interventions are experienced subjectively.