Personal Well-Being and Hope in Population Living Under Poverty Conditions in Merida, Mexico

Abstract

This chapter aims to analyze the relationship between hope and personal well-being among people living in poverty in Merida, Mexico. A quantitative study was conducted with 213 participants, and psychometric scales were used to identify this relationship. Firstly, the context of Mexican poverty was characterized. Also, it was identified that psychology generally works pointing out negative characteristics in the population in a situation of poverty. Thus, this study chooses to work with positive variables. Results evidence hope as optimism and agency and personal well-being related to internal control and spirituality. Optimism is associated with greater well-being and greater hope. These two categories are understood as necessary supports to face this reality of deprivation and to help in decision-making.