Impacts of Sustainable Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset on Psychological Well-being in Portuguese Youth.

Abstract

Mindset orientations play an important role in psychological adjustment and well-being among young people. This study examined the relationship between growth and fixed mindsets and psychological well-being, stress, and optimism in Portuguese youth, as well as gender differences in mindset orientations. The sample consisted of 736 students aged between 15 and 27 years. The results showed that growth mindset was positively associated with well-being and optimism and negatively related to stress, whereas fixed mindset was associated with higher stress and lower well-being. Significant gender differences were found, with females reporting higher levels of growth mindset and lower levels of fixed mindset. Overall, the findings highlight the relevance of promoting a sustainable mindset to support mental health and positive developmental outcomes in youth.