Introduction to Positive Psychology 2 - GRD106

Introduction to Positive Psychology GRD106-Health and Wellbeing Learning Outcome 1.Explain the applications of positive psychology practices on fostering self-reflection and personal growth and its relevance within healthcare delivery and practice. GRD106- Health...

Introduction to Positive Psychology GRD106-Health and Wellbeing Learning Outcome 1.Explain the applications of positive psychology practices on fostering self-reflection and personal growth and its relevance within healthcare delivery and practice. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 2  Lecture Objectives: 1. Demonstrate understanding of the principles of psychology and its different areas. 2. Demonstrate understanding of the meaning and importance of positive psychology. 3. Explain the dimensions of positive psychology. 4. Outline the key themes in positive psychology. 5. Identify the various types of happiness in the context of positive psychology. 6. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of positive psychology on healthcare workers and patients. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 3  Psychology is not just the study of weakness and damage; it is also the study of strength and virtue. Treatment is not just fixing what is broken; it is nurturing what is best within us. —Martin E. P. Seligman GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 4  History of Psychology Psychology is considered a young science compared to other disciplines. Before the 19th century, those curious about the mind often explored it through philosophy and other sciences. The establishment of psychology as a separate scientific field is often credited to Wilhelm Wundt and William James, who made significant contributions in the 19th century. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 5 History of Psychology Timeline GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 6 Psychology is a rich and diverse field encompassing various essential domains. As a result, a number of unique and distinctive branches of psychology have emerged, each one dealing with specific psychological areas. These specialized fields collectively contribute to a holistic understanding of the complexities of human behavior and the mind. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 7  Major Areas of Psychology: Clinical Psychology: Focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders. Social Psychology: Explores the impact of social interactions, groups, and societal influences on behavior. Cognitive Psychology: Investigates mental processes such as memory, thinking, and problem-solving. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 8  Major Areas of Psychology: Behavioral psychology Understanding behavior through different types of conditioning) Biopsychology: Study of how biological factors, such as the brain, nervous system, and genetics, influence behavior, cognition, and mental processes Positive Psychology: Promotes the study of positive aspects like happiness, strengths, and well-being. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 9 GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 10  Positive Psychology In this course, our primary focus will be on the field of positive psychology, specifically exploring into the study of happiness and wellbeing. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 11 "In 1998, Martin E. P. Seligman urged psychologists to refocus on psychology's original mission: building human strength and nurturing genius. To address this gap, Seligman introduced positive psychology as a new discipline, emphasizing a fresh direction for the field. Martin E. P. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing Seligman 12  Definition of Positive Psychology Positive psychology is the branch of psychology that focuses on studying and promoting the positive aspects of human experience and well-being. Positive psychology is the scientific study of what makes life most worth living (Peterson,2008) GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 13 GRD106- Health and Wellbeing Exploring Positive Psychology Positive psychology is Revisits "the average the scientific study of person" to understand ordinary human what works, what's strengths and right, and what's qualities. improving. Differs from traditional Explores individual psychology by shifting strengths, resilience, the focus from mental positive emotions, and illness to positive the cultivation of a aspects of psychology. purposeful life. 14 GRD106- Health and Wellbeing Exploring Positive Psychology Utilizes research, Underscores interventions, Described as the positive and theories to the scientific actions foster positive, study of what individuals adaptive, enables contribute to creative, and individuals and themselves, emotionally communities to their families, fulfilling thrive and their aspects of (succeed). communities. human behavior. 15 Dimensions of Positive Psychology Positive psychology, aiming to nurture talent and enhance life fulfillment, explores a broad range of interests, focusing on three general areas of human experience. Societal level 1.The Subjective Level 2.The Individual Level Individual 3.The Group or Societal Level Subjecti ve GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 16  Dimensions of Positive Psychology 1. The Subjective Level Positive psychology examines positive emotions like happiness, joy, life satisfaction, relaxation, love, intimacy, and contentment. It also encompasses positive thoughts, including constructive views about oneself and the future. It considers the impact of positive emotions, such as joy, on energy, vitality, and confidence. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 17  Dimensions of Positive Psychology 2. The Individual Level Focuses on a study of positive individual traits, or the more positive behavioral patterns seen in people over time, including behavioral patterns like courage, honesty, persistence, and wisdom. Includes studying good actions and qualities, which were previously described as character strengths and virtues GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 18  Dimensions of Positive Psychology 3. The Group or Societal Level Focuses on the development, creation, and maintenance of positive institutions or communities. Addresses the development of civic virtues, the creation of healthy families, and the study of healthy work environments. Involved in investigations focused on improving how institutions can better support and nurture all citizens they impact (Institutional Enhancement) GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 19  Positive psychology, then, is the scientific study of positive human functioning and flourishing at a number of levels, such as the biological, personal, relational, institutional, cultural, and global dimensions of life. (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000) GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 20  Basic Themes of Positive Psychology The fundamental concepts, principles, and overarching ideas that serve as the foundation for the field of positive psychology. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 21 1. Fulfilling and Purposeful Life GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 22 1. Fulfilling and Purposeful Life Positive psychology primarily focuses on understanding the elements and predictors of a fulfilling and Purposeful life. Many wrongly believe the Purposeful life is linked to extreme wealth, power, prestige, and beauty, but this understanding is incorrect. Qualities that help define the Purposeful life are those that enrich our lives, make life worth living, and foster strong character. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 23 1. Fulfilling and Purposeful Life Purposeful Life is using your signature strengths every day to produce authentic happiness and abundant gratification (Martin Seligman (2002)) Qualities that help define the good life are those that enrich our lives, make life worth living, and foster strong character. (This will be discussed further later in this course) GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 24 2. Positive Emotions GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 25 2. Positive Emotions Positive emotions are crucial in positive psychology because they play a central role in promoting overall well-being and flourishing. Positive emotions and adaptive behavior have on various positive outcomes in life. Positive emotions are also associated with successful striving for desired goals. People who experience and express positive emotions more often are likely to be satisfied with their lives. (This will be discussed further later in this course) GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 26 3. People Need Positive Social Relationships GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 27 3. People Need Positive Social Relationships Positive psychology acknowledges the significance of the social context in shaping human behavior. Positive psychology acknowledges the importance of positive social environments, social well-being, and empowerment. Well-being is not just an individual pursuit; it exists within social contexts. Emphasizes that "other people matter" in the pursuit of well- being. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 28 4. Independence of Positive and Negative Emotions GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 29 4. Independence of Positive and Negative Historically, it Emotions was assumed that eliminating negative emotions would automatically lead to an increase in positive emotions. it's important to study not only happy and positive aspects of life but also the challenges and negative emotions. Negative emotions, like anxiety and fear, are part of being human and can even be essential for survival. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 30 4. Independence of Positive and Negative Emotions Positive psychology understands that happiness alone doesn't define a good life. Positive psychology is not just about being overly positive; it acknowledges that life has difficult moments that contribute to our overall human experience. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 31 5. Strengths and Virtues GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 32 5. Strengths and Virtues "Virtues are positive qualities in how a person behaves and thinks. Possessing these qualities contributes to a person's overall well-being and helps them navigate life more effectively." GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 33 5. Strengths and Virtues Most of the virtues involve how we behave in social relationships. Positive psychology places significant emphasis on the importance of strengths and virtues in the pursuit of well-being and a fulfilling life. Strengths and virtues are foundational elements that contribute to human flourishing and a positive life. Virtues such as courage, fidelity, and honesty are integral to exploring dimensions of an admirable and fulfilling life. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 34 6. People Can Flourish and Thrive GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 35 6. People Can Flourish and Thrive The phrase "People Can Flourish and Thrive" means that individuals have the ability to not only get through tough times but also grow and feel good about life afterward. People can bounce back and become even stronger and happier after facing challenges. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 36 6. People Can Flourish and Thrive Positive psychology sees that many people find clever ways to handle life's challenges, making themselves and those around them feel good. Even when life gets tough, it highlights that most people manage to adapt successfully to its ups and downs. Previous psychological research assumed that individuals are solely influenced by biology, childhood, or unconscious motives. Positive psychology suggests that human beings are often drawn more by the future than driven by the past. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 37 Three Types of Happiness in Positive Psychology Positive psychologists describe three types of happiness, each emphasizing different aspects of a fulfilling life: 1. The Pleasant Life 2. The Good Life 3. The Meaningful Life GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 38  Three Types of Happiness 1. The Pleasant Life This type of happiness is characterized by experiencing positive emotions and seeking enjoyment in life. It involves maximizing pleasure, joy, and positive experiences. Individuals focusing on the pleasant life aim to increase moments of happiness and well-being in their daily lives. Example: Enjoying a day at the beach with friends, feeling the warmth of the sun, playing beach games, and experiencing joy and relaxation. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 39 Three Types of Happiness 2. The Good Life The good life is centered around engagement in meaningful activities, where individuals feel a sense of flow or immersion. This type of happiness is achieved when one is fully absorbed in work or play, losing track of time. It emphasizes the importance of being deeply involved in activities that provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Example: An artist immersed in creating a painting, losing track of time as they passionately express their creativity and engage fully in the process of artistic creation. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 40 Three Types of Happiness 3. The Meaningful Life The “meaningful life” in which a person uses his or her character strengths in service to a larger effort. It revolves around using one's character strengths and abilities in service to a larger purpose or cause. This type of happiness is derived from contributing to something beyond oneself, such as helping others, making a positive impact on society, or working towards a greater goal. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 41 Three Types of Happiness 3. The Meaningful Life It involves aligning personal strengths with a broader sense of meaning and significance. Example: A volunteer dedicating time and effort to a local community project, using their organizational skills and compassion to make a positive impact on the lives of others, finding deep satisfaction in contributing to a larger cause. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 42  Positive psychology is increasingly integrated into healthcare delivery as a crucial element for improving Positive both the experience of healthcare workers and Psychology patient outcomes. and Embedding positive Healthcare psychological practices within Delivery healthcare systems, organizations can create environments that support the mental and emotional well-being of staff and patients alike. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 43 Impact of Positive Psychology on Healthcare Workers 1. Enhance Job Satisfaction: Positive psychology is vital and highly effective in boosting job satisfaction in healthcare. It helps healthcare professionals use their strengths, become more resilient, and build strong relationships, leading to a more rewarding and lasting work environment. Studies show that healthcare workers who experience greater levels of happiness tend to be more engaged and productive in their roles, resulting in higher job satisfaction. (Warr & Cook, 1992). GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 44 Impact of Positive Psychology on Healthcare Workers 2. Improved Interpersonal Relationships : Positive psychology fosters better communication and collaboration among healthcare teams. When healthcare workers feel valued and appreciated, it enhances teamwork, which is vital in delivering high-quality patient care (Tugade & Fredrickson, 2004). Increased empathy and emotional intelligence, applying positive psychology practices, lead to more compassionate care and better relationships with patients and colleagues (Schueller, 2010). GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 45 Impact of Positive Psychology on Healthcare Workers 3. Enhanced Patient Care : Healthcare workers who practice positive psychology are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to higher levels of performance. This, in turn, can result in more attentive and effective patient care (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). Positive psychology can also help healthcare workers maintain a positive outlook, even in challenging situations, allowing them to provide consistent, high-quality care (Lyubomirsky, King, & Diener, 2005). GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 46 Impact of Positive Psychology on Patient Outcomes: 1. Improved Mental Health and Recovery: Patients exposed to positive psychology interventions often experience improved mental health outcomes. Practices such as promoting hope, resilience, and optimism can significantly impact a patient's recovery process (Sin & Lyubomirsky, 2009). Positive emotions and mental states have been linked to faster recovery times, better adherence to treatment plans, and lower rates of hospital readmission (Pressman & Cohen, 2005). GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 47 Impact of Positive Psychology on Patient Outcomes: 2. Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: A healthcare environment that prioritizes positive psychology tends to raise a more supportive and empathetic atmosphere. Patients feel more heard, respected, and cared for, leading to higher levels of satisfaction with their healthcare experience (Diener & Chan, 2011). When patients perceive their healthcare providers as empathetic and positive, they are more likely to engage in their care, follow medical advice, and maintain a positive outlook, which can contribute to better health GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 48 Impact of Positive Psychology on Patient Outcomes: 3. Better Chronic Disease Management: Positive psychology can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions. Interventions that promote resilience and coping skills can help patients manage their symptoms more effectively and improve their quality of life (Snyder et al., 2002). Encouraging a positive mindset in chronic disease management has been shown to reduce stress, enhance immune function, and improve overall well-being, all of which contribute to better health outcomes (Luthans & Youssef-Morgan, 2017). GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 49  Recap of this lecture History Areas of Positive Dimensions of of psycholo Psycholo Positive psycholo Psychology gy gy gy Basic Positive Three Types Psychology Themes of of and Positive Healthcare Happiness Psychology Delivery GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 50  Resources Compton, W. C. & Hoffman, E. (20190. Positive Psychology: The Science of Happiness and Flourishing. (3rd edition). Sage Publications. USA. Pursuit of Happiness. (n.d.). History of Happiness: Martin Seligman & Positive Psychology. Retrieved from https://www.pursuit-of-happiness.org/history-of-happiness/martin-seligman-psychology/ Positive Psychology. (n.d.). PERMA Model: Your Scientific Theory of Happiness. Retrieved from https://positivepsychology.com/perma-model/ Luthans, F., & Youssef-Morgan, C. M. (2017). Psychological capital: An evidence-based positive approach. Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior, 4, 339-366. Lambert, M. J., Hansen, N. B., & Finch, A. E. (2013). Patient-focused research: Using patient outcome data to enhance treatment effects. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 69(2), 159-172. Sin, N. L., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2009). Enhancing well-being and alleviating depressive symptoms with positive psychology interventions: A practice-friendly meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 65(5), 467-487. GRD106- Health and Wellbeing 51