Effects of an Appreciation of Beauty Randomized-Controlled Trial Web-Based Intervention on Appreciation of Beauty and Well-Being

Abstract

Despite the growing research on character strengths and positive interventions, appreciation of beauty (AB) interventions are virtually nonexistent. This paper assesses the effects of a 3-week randomized-controlled trial (RCT) web-based intervention of AB on AB and well-being. Participants (N = 150) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: AB, placebo, and waitlist. First week exercises aimed at increasing the awareness of the presence of beauty and of how beauty affects our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Second-week exercises focused on cultivating an aesthetic attitude in front of beauty. Finally, third-week exercises aimed at increasing the exposure to beauty. AB and well-being were assessed in the pretest, posttest, and 1-month follow-up. Only participants in the AB condition increased some aspects of AB and well-being. Results suggest that AB might be developed and that focusing on different aspects of AB increases well-being. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.