PSYCH 243Introduction to Well-being and Positive Psychology

3 credits · Psychology · Penn State

The introduction to well-being and positive psychology involves the application of empirically derived principles of psychology to address everyday experiences and focuses on ways to enhance one's life. More specifically, students will be introduced to the field and learn that positive psychology encompasses much more than the study of happiness, a common misconception. Students will learn to embraces strengths, fosters personal growth, and enhance well-being based on scientific research. As part of a scholarly discipline, scientific field, and professional activity, the overall focus of the course is the study of the psychological processes that relate to enhancing one's life.As an important area of psychological science, positive psychology is an area of research in which investigators develop and systematically test theories about the "good life." As part of a profession, it involves the application of this empirically gained knowledge to enable people to cultivate areas of their lives that will lead to greater contentment and fulfillment. This course provides an overview of the field of positive psychology. It introduces the field by exploring its history and considers its place in the field of psychology more generally. Topics discussed include but are not limited to positive emotions, positive thinking, character strengths, values, relationships (intimate and friendships), and the meaning of life. Cultural considerations within the field are also explored. Content is presented through a combination of lectures, readings, active learning activities, and demonstrations. Assessment is based on objective exams and writing assignments (which includes the use of scientific research to support personal experiences). Discussion and questions are encouraged in all sections to facilitate students¿ understanding of the material. After taking this course, students should have a better understanding of the field of positive psychology and what it encompasses and will acquire tools for applying the concepts learned to their own lives.