Positive psychology encompasses the study of positive experiences, positive character strengths, relationships, and the institutions and practices that facilitate their development. Positive experiences include the mental states of fluency and mindfulness and emotions about the present (pleasure, satisfaction, laughter), past (e.g., nostalgia, satisfaction, pride), and future (e.g., hope, optimism). The distinction between the pleasant life, the good life and the meaningful life will be identified. Positive character traits include wisdom, courage, compassion, love, humanity, justice, temperance, self-efficacy, resilience, imagination, creativity, and spirituality/transcendence. The classification of these is explored through the virtues. Positive relationships include factors that enhance meaning and well-being among partners, family, friends, coworkers, and the community. Positive institutions are exemplified by positive education, positive work environments, healthy families, human leadership, and the development of civic virtues.

This course also reviews the history of positive psychology and the contributions that this new field has made to several traditional areas of research in psychology. Throughout the course we will also engage in experiential learning and practical exercises to increase well-being, which will inform our theoretical and empirical understanding of important issues in positive psychology.