Positive Psychology Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Positive Psychology?

Positive psychology is an area of empirical research that focuses on understanding and promoting optimal mental health and well-being. It is based on the idea that individuals have the capacity to thrive, overcome adversity, and find meaning in their lives. Positive psychology has gained considerable attention in recent years, as it has become an important part of mental health treatment.The key components of positive psychology include developing personal strengths, building meaningful relationships, developing resilience, pursuing meaningful goals and values, finding purpose in life, cultivating optimism and hope for the future, regulating emotions effectively and practicing mindfulness to reduce stress. By focusing on these aspects of one’s life rather than merely relieving symptoms or managing distress (as was traditionally done by psychologists), positive psychologists aim to reach a state of psychological flourishing or optimal functioning. This optimal functioning can be achieved through interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapies which encourage people to reframe their thoughts in a more positive light. Positive psychology also emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments that foster wellbeing. This may involve factors such as having access to health care services or social support networks; engaging in community activities; participating in physical activity; practicing healthy lifestyle habits such as good sleep hygiene; cultivating gratitude and forgiveness; seeking out creative outlets; working towards personal growth through learning new skills or volunteering; establishing positive relationships with friends and family members; embracing spirituality; and setting realistic goals for oneself. Overall, positive psychology offers individuals a holistic approach to mental health treatment by emphasizing both prevention strategies (by focusing on increasing psychological well-being) as well as intervention strategies (by helping individuals cope with psychological distress). Ultimately, it is hoped that through engaging in these activities individuals will be able to live meaningful lives with greater satisfaction while simultaneously reducing levels of psychological distress.