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Martin Seligman Positive Psychology

1430 Words6 Pages

Introduction Since the beginning of psychological science, psychologists have directed their entire focus on what troubles the mind. This emphasis on psychopathology has resulted in the abandonment of the essential positive aspects of human nature and life. However, through the work of Martin Seligman and his colleague Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, positive psychology was able to redirect this perspective (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). Thus, this allowed a comprehensive understanding of optimal functioning and thriving, as the basis of positive psychology was to help individuals recognise their strengths and guide themselves to a state of flourishing. Various studies, including those conducted by Park, Peterson and Seligman (2004) and Proctor …show more content…

However, following World War II, psychologists abandoned two vital aspects of their pursuit and thus, shifted their entire focus onto eliminating the negative psychological outcomes of the war and treating mental illnesses (Maddox, 2002; Seligman, 2002). This decision was influenced by the rise of research funding in pathology, the innate negativity bias within humans and the belief that priority should be placed onto helping those “who are suffering… before those who are already doing well” (Gable & Haidt, 2005, …show more content…

These strengths exist in degrees and thus, can be qualitatively classified and measured using the Values in Action – Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS), which involves twenty-four universal character strengths arranged under six comprehensive virtues (Park, Peterson & Seligman, 2004). Thus, many researchers have utilised this effective tool to investigate the impact of character strengths on well-being and life satisfaction. This research area is viewed as being significant by various researchers, as the research literature depicts that some character strengths are associated with enhanced fulfilment of life and thus, decreased psychopathology, increased physical health and increased positive social relationships (Frisch, 2000; Furr & Funder, 1998; Veenhoven,

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