Positive psychology

What is it?

Positive psychology is a new branch of psychology that focuses on the study of positive emotions, strengths-based character, healthy institutions, etc. Research has demonstrated that it is possible to be happier regardless of one’s circumstances, that is, to feel more satisfied, to be more engaged with life, find more meaning, have higher hopes, probably even laugh and smile more, and to decrease depression symptoms.

Positive psychology identifies the strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive. It is founded on the belief that people want to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, to cultivate what is best within themselves, and to enhance their experiences of love, work and play.

Central concerns

Positive Psychology has three central concerns:

• • Positive emotions. This entails contentment with the past, happiness in the present, and hope for the future.

• • Positive individual traits. This consists of strengths and virtues – such as the capacity for love and work, courage, compassion, resilience, creativity, curiosity, integrity, self-knowledge, moderation, self-control and wisdom.

• • Positive institutions. This entails the strengths that foster better communities – such as justice, responsibility, civility, parenting, nurturance, work ethic, leadership, teamwork, purpose and tolerance.

Goals of positive psychology

Some of the goals of positive psychology are to provide a system that supports:

• • Families and schools that allow children to flourish

• • Workplaces that foster satisfaction and high productivity

• • Communities that encourage civic engagement

• • Therapists who identify and nurture their patients’ strengths.

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to find out how you can live life positively.