Interdisciplinary Psychology:

John Lanning                                                                                      Positive Psychology

January 26, 2008                                                                                Winter 2008

Introduction to Positive Psychology

William C. Compton

Information given in this text provides for a more complete understanding of the scope of positive psychology. I was unaware of the depth and breadth of the research being done and the findings related the positive power working beneath the human condition.

It is very intriguing to me, how such great minds, geniuses, who were the founding fathers of the psychological science, could have such narrow focus. As stated in the text p.158, “Freud’s vision of humanity was a pessimistic one”. This would lead me to believe the study of Positive Psychology is being studied and formulated by those who have an optimistic bent. This would lead back to the scientific research principle that we must be careful in research to maintain objectivity and not skew results to match personal beliefs in an attempt to prove ourselves correct.

            The first point of the book relates to the why of our existence. What is it that makes us tick and moves us forward or backward in personal and social development. An attempt is made to answer the question “What is the good life?” A strong argument is given that using ones signature strengths on a daily basis will move a person towards this ideal. This is in contrast to previous theory of a biological drive that existence is merely for the purpose of propagation of the species. What a sad thought that we would only be here on earth as cattle to build the herd.

            Good Character and living up to individual values are described as another distinguishing feature of positive psychology (p.8) this is in direct contrast with early beliefs about drives that were in charge of our motivations.

            Several specific points are brought out in this book concerning some misconceptions of what brings about happiness and a fulfilling life. One such concept is the assumptions that more money means more happiness. As the text points out the fact that a person experiences less anxiety, depression and worry it does increase the factors that increase happiness like courage, self-sacrifice, integrity and honesty.

            Another important point is that previous thought was our existence was in the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. These basic needs to not translate into long lasting happiness. It is also important to note that pleasures have a tolerance associated with them that requires increased stimulation and frequency to create the same pleasurable sensations. This leads to the Hedonic Treadmill effect which can be a source of frustration and lower satisfaction with life.

            The eudaimonic approach establishes a theory of human nature and existence that goes beyond the fulfillment of momentary pleasure and the avoidance of pain. The concept of “flow” also supports this theory. As a person engages in activities that challenge the baseline of the self and the opportunity for growth happens, a sense of empowerment happens. This feeling of empowerment is a critical area to a positive human experience as the text points out in the predictors of subjective well-being.

            Optimism is described as one of the other important factors related to the positive life experience, and the book makes the distinction that realistic optimism is the ideal standard for maximizing human potential for happiness.

There are many other factors discussed in the text and the research concerning positive life experience, among these are spirituality which I feel is a large part of the positive experience and is shown in the research to be important.

            In summation, this text provides a very thorough representation of the basis for the belief that humans possess many positive qualities that allow for the adaptation skills necessary to provide for a life that is more positive and fulfilling.