Positive psychology is a growing field that studies what makes people happy. It looks at positive emotions and methods of fulfillment, like pleasure, spirituality, gratitude, hope and charity. It also examines the difference between creating enduring happiness and feeling good about yourself for a moment or a day. Several universities offer courses on positive psychology. These classes may ask students to review their own lives and how they achieve happiness and satisfaction. Some academics and educators criticize this field as lacking in hard science and say that professors don't often consider individual differences among people as affecting happiness.
What if you don't have a psychological disorder but you'd like to improve your emotional state, find more meaning in your life, or fulfill your potential? The growth of the field of positive psychology has expanded the body of scientific evidence and increased the number of individuals who are benefiting from techniques and therapies aimed at developing a positive outlook that improves the quality of their daily lives. In sum, the burgeoning field of positive psychology addresses questions of happiness, vitality, and meaning in life as worthy of serious scientific research.
Positive psychology tucks under one umbrella the study of positive emotions, full engagement in activities, personal virtues and strengths, and paths to fulfillment and a meaningful life. That's quite a disparate grab bag, and by dipping into it you may well locate deeper satisfaction, fun, and greater abundance in your life.
Continue Learning about Personality
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.