Positive Psychology
Positive Psychology is a branch of psychology whose purpose was nicely defined and took form while Martin Seligman, PhD was president of the American Psychological Association. APA
“We believe that a psychology of positive human functioning will arise, which achieves a scientific understanding and effective interventions to build thriving in individuals, families and communities. “ Martin Seligman, PhD
Positive psychology therapists seek to “find and nurture genius and talent…and to make normal life more fulfilling” not simply to treat mental illness.
It is generally a complement to more traditional therapies such as CBT. Positive Psychology does not seek to deny the importance of studying how things go wrong, but rather to emphasize the importance of using the scientific method to determine how things go right.
Researchers in the field analyze things like states of pleasure or flow, values, strengths, virtues, talents and to how promote these elements in social systems. It is the science behind Positive Psychology that differentiates this field from the shelves of self-help books and DVDs that promise to turn your life around.
Positive Psychology techniques have been researched and applied world-wide. Ideas and approaches to well-being have been tested numerous times utilizing controlled studies. In essence Positive Psychology is the science of what is right in life. It contains practical and enjoyable methods which allow individuals to shift from a state of enduring , tolerating and existing to living with passion, satisfaction and achievement.