This course will explore an emerging approach in psychology which examines human strengths, positive
psychological experiences, growth-enhancing individual traits and the characteristics of constructive groups and
institutions. The most basic assumption that positive psychology urges is that human goodness and excellence are
as authentic as disease, disorder, and distress. This approach will be contrasted to the “disease model”
traditionally employed in understanding mind and behavior. Positive psychology proposes that positive institutions
facilitate the development and manifestation of positive traits, which in turn facilitate positive subjective
experiences.
Prerequisite Courses