Positive Psychology
Definition
The branch of psychology known as "positive psychology" is involved with the personality characteristics and behaviours that enable people to go beyond mere survival, to living a meaningful and purposeful existence. The goal of the field's theorists and researchers has been to determine what constitutes a good life.
Happiness
Happiness = Happiness for an evolutionary psychologist is a goal-state that animals have evolved to pursue. When you're happy, that means your needs have been satisfied.
3 Interesting Facts About Happiness
1. Happiness doesn't change as much as you think. But it has a genetically-determined range.
2. Happiness is influenced by absolute and relative factors.
3. Our judgments about the pleasure and pain of past events are skewed.
Examples
- "I think my life is great"
- "I am satisfied with my job"
Causes
- A good income
- Achieving one's goals
- High self-esteem
Subjective Well-Being
- The name that scientists give to happiness—thinking and feeling that our lives are going very well.
Causes of Subjective Well-Being
Outcomes of High Subjective Well-Being
