The psychologists from Tartu University in Estonia have conducted extensive research on the connection between body posture and mental state over time. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Personality (JOP) scientific magazine.

Body postures are psychological characteristics that reflect people’s emotions, motivation, thoughts, and beliefs in different situations. These postures are consistent and similar, allowing experts to classify and describe individual differences in human posture. The most widely accepted model of posture in the scientific community is the Model of Big Five, which includes neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, conscientiousness, and agreeableness. The question arises: does body posture reflect a person’s personality, or is there another factor that influences both body posture and mental state?

To find answers, the psychologists analyzed data from another research study that collected information about the well-being of students from the United Nations Development Programme’s school network over several decades. The results revealed clear connections between body posture indicators and the values of the UN, which were measured simultaneously. However, in certain periods, personal qualities did not correlate with the dimensions of body posture.

Overall, the researchers discovered that the UN can influence changes in body posture indicators through well-being factors. Interestingly, their analysis showed that individuals with lower values, according to the average calculation of the index of value for neuroticism, displayed greater resilience and consistency compared to those with higher values.

This research provides valuable insights into the relationship between body posture, mental state, and external influences such as the values promoted by the UN. By understanding these connections, we can deepen our understanding of human behavior and potentially improve mental well-being.