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Questions and Answers
What is the definition of positive psychology?
What is the definition of positive psychology?
Positive Psychology is the scientific study of human flourishing and an applied approach to optimal functioning. It studies the strengths and virtues that enable individuals, communities, and organizations to thrive.
Does positive psychology deny valleys in life?
Does positive psychology deny valleys in life?
False
What is meant by this statement: 'Positive psychology has a very long past but only a very short history.'?
What is meant by this statement: 'Positive psychology has a very long past but only a very short history.'?
Positive psychology was named in 1998 as one of Martin Seligman's initiatives, recognizing the need for psychology to focus more on human flourishing rather than just problems.
Prior to 1998, what was psychology primarily interested in?
Prior to 1998, what was psychology primarily interested in?
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Who is considered the founding father of the Positive Psychology Movement?
Who is considered the founding father of the Positive Psychology Movement?
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What is the most basic assumption that positive psychology urges?
What is the most basic assumption that positive psychology urges?
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Is it possible to pursue happiness directly, or is fulfillment a by-product of other pursuits?
Is it possible to pursue happiness directly, or is fulfillment a by-product of other pursuits?
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Does positive psychology place the psychology of religion in a central place in the field of psychology?
Does positive psychology place the psychology of religion in a central place in the field of psychology?
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Is positive psychology just happiology?
Is positive psychology just happiology?
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What are some positive traits and institutions that positive psychology studies?
What are some positive traits and institutions that positive psychology studies?
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How is positive psychology related to humanism, existentialism, and phenomenology?
How is positive psychology related to humanism, existentialism, and phenomenology?
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Is the good life a matter of choice?
Is the good life a matter of choice?
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Is positive psychology anything more than what Sunday school teachers know?
Is positive psychology anything more than what Sunday school teachers know?
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Are positive psychologists indifferent to suffering?
Are positive psychologists indifferent to suffering?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Positive Psychology
- Positive Psychology studies human flourishing and optimal functioning, focusing on strengths and virtues that enable thriving individuals and communities.
- It acknowledges both the highs and lows of life, giving equal importance to positive experiences and challenges.
History and Background
- Term "Positive Psychology" was established by Martin Seligman in 1998, focusing on enhancing positive life aspects rather than solely fixing problems.
- Prior to 1998, psychology mainly explored genius and talents, primarily addressing normal life fulfillment.
- Positive Psychology has deep historical roots but is relatively recent as an organized field.
Foundational Concepts
- Martin Seligman is recognized as the founding father of Positive Psychology.
- A core assumption is that human goodness and excellence are authentic and significant, alongside disease and distress.
Pursuing Happiness and Meaning
- Happiness cannot be pursued directly; fulfillment emerges from meaningful engagements, both spiritual and secular.
- Psychology places significant emphasis on the psychology of religion, which has historically been underrepresented.
Distinction from Other Psychological Views
- Positive Psychology is not merely about happiness; it encompasses three distinct forms of positive existence.
- It intersects with Humanism, Existentialism, and Phenomenology, focusing on strengths that help individuals and communities thrive.
The Good Life
- Achieving the good life involves recognizing and engaging unique skills and abilities, despite barriers like poverty and prejudice.
- The good life can be more complicated than merely a matter of choice, requiring personal engagement and talent utilization.
Common Misconceptions
- Some elements of Positive Psychology may seem obvious or commonsensical once articulated, but they emphasize deeper understanding.
- Positive psychologists are not indifferent to suffering; they aim to alleviate human problems and enhance well-being.
Limitations and Challenges
- Maintaining happiness, particularly in situations like terminal illness, raises questions about the complexities of human emotion and experience.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the foundational concepts of Positive Psychology with these flashcards. Chapter 1 introduces key definitions and explores the significance of human strengths and flourishing. Challenge yourself to recall the principles that support optimal functioning in individuals and communities.
