Positive Psychology Chapter 1 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

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?

False

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?

Genius and talents and fulfilling the life of normal people. Signup and view all the answers

Who is considered the founding father of the Positive Psychology Movement?

Martin E.P. Seligman, PhD. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most basic assumption that positive psychology urges?

Human goodness and excellence are as authentic as disease, disorder, and distress. Signup and view all the answers

Is it possible to pursue happiness directly, or is fulfillment a by-product of other pursuits?

Fulfillment can be found in both spiritual and secular pursuits. Signup and view all the answers

Does positive psychology place the psychology of religion in a central place in the field of psychology?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is positive psychology just happiology?

False Signup and view all the answers

What are some positive traits and institutions that positive psychology studies?

Positive subjective experiences, positive psychological traits, positive interpersonal relationships, and positive institutions. Signup and view all the answers

How is positive psychology related to humanism, existentialism, and phenomenology?

Positive psychology studies strengths that enable individuals and communities to thrive, while humanistic psychology focuses on goals and conscious awareness. Signup and view all the answers

Is the good life a matter of choice?

The good life is influenced by external circumstances and is achieved through identifying and engaging unique skills and abilities. Signup and view all the answers

Is positive psychology anything more than what Sunday school teachers know?

False Signup and view all the answers

Are positive psychologists indifferent to suffering?

False Signup and view all the answers

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.