STUDY UNIT 6.3POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY

• Psycho - regarding human psyche

• forte - strong

• logos - knowledge of

• Scientific study of strengths and virtues

• What is right and improve

• Attempt to psychologists centres to a more open and appreciative perspective regarding human potentials, motives and abilities to accept

DEFINITION• Psychofortology:

• (= The science of psychological

• strengths).

• Focus on appearance, manifestation,

• patterns, origins, dynamics

• and promoting individual,

• group and Community strengths

• Uses theory and research to better understand the positive, adaptive, creative and fulfilling

• (Wissing & Van Eeden, 1997; 2002)

• Before World War II:

• Psychology three goals:

• One. Mental illness make healthy

• 2. Makes people's lives more productive and fulfilling

• 3. Identify and develop high talent.

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

•Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not

merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

PSYCHOFORTOLOGY DEFENCE

Eudaimoniese(e.g. Ryff & Singer, 1998)

Hedoniese(e.g. Diener, 2000)

Experience of significanceHappiness and subjective well being

Fulfillment Pleasure

Expression of strengths Satisfied with life

Realize own worth and role of qualities Positive emotions

SELIGMAN - CHARACTER STRENGTHS VIA-IS

1. WISDOM: Acquisition and use of knowledge

creativity, curiosity, open-mindedness, love of learning,perspective

2. COURAGE: Will to accomplish goals

bravery, persistence, integrity, vitality

3. HUMANITY: Interpersonal strengths, tending, befriending

love, kindness, social intelligence

4. JUSTICE: Civic strenghts and community health

citizenship, fairness, justice, leadership

5. TEMPERANCE: Protect against excess

forgiveness and mercy, modesty and humility,prudence, self-regulation

6. TRANSCENDENCE: Connections to larger universe and give meaning

appreciation of beauty and excellence, gratitude, hope, humor, spirituality