Positive Psychology Techniques

As a field, positive psychology spends much of its time thinking about topics like character strengths, optimism, life satisfaction, happiness, wellbeing, gratitude, compassion (as well as self-compassion), self-esteem and self-confidence, hope, and elevation.

Positive psychology has led to the development of several key concepts. These have proven to be highly therapeutic for people with depression and anxiety. Studies indicate both positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy are effective in reducing symptoms of depression.

• Gratitude Journal. People tend to focus on their negative experiences far more than their positive experiences.
• Gratitude Visit. Positive relationships are one of the best predictors of happiness and well-being.
• Acts of Kindness.
• Developing Meaning.
• Design a Beautiful Day.

6 Tips to Successfully Teach Positive Psychology in Groups

1. Encourage Experiential Learning.
2. Develop Group Cohesion.
3. Create a Positive Learning Experience.
4. Use Positive Language.
5. Provide Clear Feedback.
6. Respect Your Ethical Responsibilities.

There are two great options out there right now.

1. EdX – Science of Happiness. Edx offers The Science of Happiness, the first MOOC to teach positive psychology.
2. Coursera – Positive Psychology by Barbara Fredrickson.
3. Coursera – Foundations of Positive Psychology Specialization by Martin Seligman.

The strategies of positive psychology, such as increasing positive emotions, develop personal strengths: seeking direction, meaning and engagement for the day-to-day life of the patients, appear as potentially tools for the prophylaxis and treatment of depression, helping to reduce signs and symptoms as well as for …

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

Noticing more positive things can change one’s outlook. Positive psychology can contribute to greater emotional resilience, happiness and overall life satisfaction while also lowering stress levels. For those looking to try out these techniques, be aware that multitasking can get in the way.

In 1998, Martin Seligman was elected President of the American Psychological Association and it was then that Positive Psychology became the theme of his term as president. He is widely seen as the father of contemporary positive psychology (About Education, 2013).

Positive psychology aims to find ways to make life better for people, and ensure they’re the most mentally healthy person they can be. Positive psychology suggests that getting rid of sickness, disability, depression, crime and the other problems of life is important, but not enough.