STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1. Develop an understanding of the fundamental differences between the traditional view of psychology and how the field of positive psychology challenges as well as integrates that view.

 2. Examine and evaluate the current research and theoretical basis for the concepts behind positive psychology.

 3. Develop an understanding of what factors contribute to resiliency.

 4. Identify the multiple dimensions of happiness and be able to apply those concepts to his/her life.

 5. Identify, describe, and apply the core concepts of positive psychology.

 6. Identify the knowledge and skills to implement any strengths-based concepts that are relevant in his/her lives.

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I. Introduction to positive psychology

 a. Traditional view vs. positive view

 b. Goals of positive psychology

 c. Basic definitions

 II. Meaning of happiness

 a. Subjective well being

 b. Eudaimonic happiness

 c. Measuring happiness

 III. Positive emotions

 a. Broaden and build theory

 b. Success and flourishing

 IV. Social locators and happiness

 a. Gender

 b. Race

 c. Marriage

 d. Education

 e. Religion

 V. Money and culture

 a. Cross cultural research

 b. “Paradox of affluence”

 c. Cultural ideas of happiness

 VI. Personal Goals

 a. Universal human motives

 b. Goals contributing to happiness

 c. Goal conflict

 d. Materialism

 VII. Self-regulation and control

 a. Following through on personal goals

 b. Making self-regulation effective

 c. Irresistible impulses

 VIII. Resilience

 a. Various perspectives

 b. Sources of resilience

 c. Post traumatic growth

 IX. Positive traits

 a. Emotions and displays of emotions

 b. Positive beliefs

 c. Optimism

 d. Virtue

 e. Wisdom

 f. Mindfulness

 X. Satisfying relationships

 a. Importance of humor

 b. Kinds of love

 c. Happy relationships