Psychology 2035A/B Chapter Notes - Chapter 16: Mental Scale, Parvenu, Indulgence

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 2035A/B
• Professor: Maxwell- Smith

Document Summary

Positive psychology = a social & intellectual movement within psychology that focuses on human strengths & how ppl can ourish & be successful. Seligman: positive psychology is a counterweight to eld"s negatively-oriented history. The scope: historical context: most clinical & research psychologist want to help ppl. Greater focus on studying meant disorders & other maladaptive tendencies to eliminate them. Potential consequences of a negative focus in psychology: No one studies positive qualities of humanity. Or how to help ppl recognize positive qualities or build upon strengths. Goals: catalyze change in focus of psychology from preoccupation w repairing worst things in life to also building positive qualities. Understand how to harness ppls strengths, virtues & other good qualities to hep them enhance their lives. Create tools & techniques for promoting & regulating well being, emotions & psychological health. To prevent mental illness, reduce distress by cultivating human strengths & help ppl. Flourish = low mental illness & high well being.