Positive Psychology
This course is part of Psychology in Action.
This introductory course explores positive psychology, the scientific study of valued subjective experiences such as happiness, well-being, satisfaction, hope, and optimism, as well as positive traits like creativity, courage, and wisdom that contribute to a meaningful life. Beginning with the historical foundations laid by William James and continuing through contemporary research, the course examines what makes people happy and how psychological states and individual traits enable us to live our best lives. Students learn about the PERMA Theory of Well-Being and other frameworks that explain factors determining happiness, subjective well-being, and life satisfaction. The curriculum provides ample opportunities to engage in evidence-based activities for self-care, including gratitude expression, helping others, mindfulness practice, and finding meaning. The course also addresses cross-cultural perspectives on well-being measurement across different societies, cultural variations in desired happiness levels, and policy implications. Additionally, it explores prosocial behavior research, examining why and when people help others and how to increase helping behavior. With its dual focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, students gain not only an understanding of positive psychology research but also actionable steps to enhance their own happiness, well-being, and life satisfaction.
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What you'll learn
Define positive psychology, well-being, and happiness from a scientific perspective
Implement simple, research-backed techniques to increase personal happiness and well-being
Explain how earlier psychological research influenced the development of positive psychology
Identify key factors that determine subjective well-being according to contemporary research
Apply positive psychology interventions in personal and professional contexts
Understand cultural differences in well-being measurement and desired levels of happiness
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
PreRecorded video
Graded assignments, Exams
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Limited Access access
Shareable certificate
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There are 4 modules in this course
This comprehensive course explores positive psychology—the scientific study of human flourishing and optimal functioning. The curriculum begins by establishing the historical foundations of positive psychology, tracing its roots from William James to contemporary researchers. Students learn about the field's founders and flag bearers, examining how earlier psychological research fostered positive psychology's development while also addressing major criticisms of the discipline. The course thoroughly examines factors that influence subjective well-being, featuring Martin Seligman's PERMA Theory (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment) and exploring additional dimensions that contribute to well-being. Practical positive psychology interventions are presented, giving students evidence-based techniques to increase happiness and life satisfaction. The course then takes a broader perspective, examining happiness as a policy issue, including how well-being is measured globally and what policies might increase societal happiness. The final sections focus on prosocial behavior, exploring the psychology of helping others—why we help, psychological factors influencing helping behavior, theories of altruism versus egoism, situational determinants of helping, and methods to increase prosocial actions. Throughout, students have opportunities to apply positive psychology principles to enhance their own well-being.
History
Module 1
Factors in Subjective Well-Being
Module 2
Happiness as a Policy Issue
Module 3
Prosocial Behavior
Module 4
Fee Structure
Individual course purchase is not available - to enroll in this course with a certificate, you need to purchase the complete Professional Certificate Course. For enrollment and detailed fee structure, visit the following: Psychology in Action
Payment options
Financial Aid
Instructor
Product Manager at American Psychological Association
Rita manages the development and improvement of courses about mental health and social psychology at the American Psychological Association. She has been working in higher education for 11 years, and earned her M.A. in Applied Social Psychology
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Frequently asked questions
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