Well-being and Academic Persistence among Allied Health Students: A PERMA Model Approach
Abstract
This study examined the role of psychological well-being in the academic persistence of allied health students in a highly urbanized city in the Philippines. Anchored on Martin Seligman’s PERMA Model of Well-being and Vincent Tinto’s Model of Student Retention, the study utilized a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design and the participants consisted of 300 third- and fourth-year allied health students. Data were gathered using the PERMA Profiler and the College Persistence Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics revealed that students generally demonstrated high levels of well-being and academic persistence. Among the PERMA dimensions, Engagement obtained the highest mean score, followed by Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment, and Positive Emotions. Relationships emerged as the strongest predictor of persistence, indicating the importance of supportive interpersonal connections in sustaining students’ academic commitment. The findings suggest that psychologically healthy students are better able to cope with academic demands and remain committed to degree completion despite challenges encountered in allied health education. The study highlights the importance of integrating positive psychology interventions and PERMA-based wellness programs into higher education guidance and counseling services to strengthen student resilience, engagement, and persistence.