Research Topic

The Science of Positive Psychology

Explore the scientific study of what makes life worth living. Learn evidence-based techniques from pioneers like Martin Seligman and Barbara Fredrickson to build lasting well-being.

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The PERMA Model of Well-Being

Developed by Dr. Martin Seligman, the PERMA model identifies five core elements that contribute to human flourishing. Each element can be measured and deliberately cultivated.

P

Positive Emotions

Joy, gratitude, serenity, hope, and love

E

Engagement

Flow states and absorbed activities

R

Relationships

Connection, love, and social bonds

M

Meaning

Purpose and service to something greater

A

Accomplishment

Achievement, competence, and success

Founding Researchers

Dr. Martin Seligman

Father of Positive Psychology | University of Pennsylvania

Former APA President who launched positive psychology in 1998. Developed the PERMA model, learned optimism, and character strengths research. His work has transformed how we understand human flourishing.

Dr. Barbara Fredrickson

Broaden-and-Build Theory | UNC Chapel Hill

Developed the broaden-and-build theory explaining how positive emotions expand awareness and build lasting resources. Her research on positivity ratios has influenced millions.

Core Theories & Concepts

Broaden-and-Build Theory

Positive emotions broaden our awareness and encourage exploratory thoughts and actions. Over time, this builds lasting personal resources: physical, intellectual, psychological, and social.

• Joy sparks urge to play and be creative
• Interest sparks urge to explore and learn
• Love sparks urge to connect and care

Learned Optimism

Seligman's research shows optimism can be learned by changing how we explain events to ourselves. Optimists see setbacks as temporary, specific, and external.

• Identify pessimistic explanatory style
• Dispute negative beliefs with evidence
• Practice alternative explanations

Character Strengths

The VIA Classification identifies 24 universal character strengths across 6 virtues. Using your signature strengths in new ways increases well-being.

• Wisdom, Courage, Humanity
• Justice, Temperance, Transcendence
• Free assessment at VIA Institute

Hedonic Adaptation

We quickly adapt to positive changes, returning to baseline happiness. Understanding this helps us design sustainable happiness practices.

• Explains why purchases don't bring lasting joy
• Variety and savoring counter adaptation
• Experiences beat possessions

Evidence-Based Interventions

Three Good Things

Write three good things that happened today and why. Shown to reduce depression for 6+ months.

Best Possible Self

Visualize and write about your best possible future self. Increases optimism and positive affect.

Using Signature Strengths

Use your top strengths in new ways daily. One of the most effective happiness interventions.

Savoring Exercises

Deliberately prolong and intensify positive experiences. Counters hedonic adaptation.

Acts of Kindness

Perform 5 acts of kindness in one day. Boosts well-being more than spreading them across a week.

Gratitude Visit

Write and deliver a gratitude letter to someone who helped you. Produces largest short-term happiness boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions?

Developed by Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, this theory explains that positive emotions broaden our awareness and encourage novel, varied thoughts and actions. Over time, this builds lasting personal resources including physical health, psychological resilience, and social connections.

What is the positivity ratio and is it scientifically valid?

The positivity ratio suggests a 3:1 ratio of positive to negative emotions supports flourishing. While the original mathematical model was criticized, subsequent research confirms that experiencing more positive emotions than negative correlates with better mental health and life satisfaction.

Can positive emotions be learned or cultivated?

Yes, research shows positive emotions can be deliberately cultivated through practices like savoring, gratitude, acts of kindness, and spending time in nature. Neuroplasticity research demonstrates that regular positive emotion practices can physically rewire brain circuits over time.

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