Let there be joy! : can joy be cultivated as a strength in Aotearoa New Zealand? : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master in Social Work, Massey University, Palmerston North, Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

This thesis presents a challenge to social workers, to bring joy to the world. Through exploring how joy helps in hard times, this research contributes to emerging interest in the field of joy. It provides evidence that joy is a powerful strength that enhances lives, can be cultivated, accessed when required, and shared with positive effect for individuals and communities. Eight participants in this qualitative research saw joy as the essence of life, strongly associated with purpose. Joy made hard times more tolerable and increased resilience. They made a compelling argument for the power of joy to change lives, and its ability to be attained through choice and practice. With belief and commitment, the participants had confidence that joy can be experienced by all. Practical suggestions are provided in this thesis of how joy can be nurtured for transformational individual and societal change. Social work is a profession well placed to advocate for, and implement joy as a protective factor, an intervention, and a lifestyle. Joy can alter our experience of the world, shift us from actors to change makers, and counter many of the issues people face in their ecological systems.