Positive Psychology

Introduction

Positive psychology is the study of happiness. Psychology has traditionally focused on dysfunction i.e, people with mental illness or other issues and how to treat it. Positive psychology, in contrast, is a field that examines how ordinary people can become happier and more fulfilled. Positive psychology is the study of the conditions and processes that contribute to the flourishing or optimal functioning of people, groups, and institutions (Gable & Haidt, 2005, p. 104). Positive psychology is about scientifically informed perspectives on what makes life worth living. It focuses on aspects of the human condition that lead to happiness, fulfilment, and flourishing (The Journal of Positive Psychology, 2005).

Seligman defines Positive

Fredrickson;B (2017) in her article labels a new theoretical perspective on positive emotions and situates this new perspective within the emerging field of positive psychology. The broaden-and-build theory suggests that experiences of positive emotions broaden people's momentary thought-action ranges, which in turn serves to build their enduring personal resources, ranging from physical and intellectual resources to social and psychological resources. Preliminary empirical evidence supporting the broaden-and-build theory is reviewed, and open empirical questions that remain to be tested are identified.

Abdallah, S., Michaelson, J; et al (2012) in his article explains that the field of positive psychology has influenced many disciplines in a very short duration of time. He also argued that positive psychology will realize its most important and far reaching He also argues that positive psychology will realize its most significant and far reaching impression when it is applied to sustainability efforts. Such applications may accelerate shifts in attitudes, policies and

Such developments look set to provide the force for a psychology that is integrative of the positive and the negative.

Applications of Positive Psychology

Practical application of positive psychology is to assist individuals and organizations in identifying strengths so as to increase and sustain well-being. Therapists, counselors, coaches, various psychological professionals, HR departments, business strategists, and others, are using new methods and techniques to broaden and build upon the strengths of a wide population of individuals. This includes those not suffering from mental illness or disorder.

Happiness measurement. Some policy analysts, citing positive psychology, propose replacing the gross domestic product with gross national happiness as the predominant measure of a nation's success.

Physical education. As a basic building block to a better existence, positive psychology aims to improve the quality of experiences. If offered in an interesting, challenging and pleasurable way physical activity would thus internalize an authentic feeling of happiness in students. Positive psychology's approach to physical activity could give students the means of acquiring an engaged, pleasant and meaningful