Foundations of Positive Psychology

This unit introduces students to the principles of positive psychology. Students will learn how positive psychology emerged as a study of what makes people happy and well, rather than diagnosing and treating psychopathologies in traditional psychology. It will cover the concept and measurement of signature strengths as an alternative to the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (4th ed.); and explores determinants of wellbeing such as optimism, resilience, and self-efficacy. Students will gain an understanding of how positive psychology is implicated beyond the individual to communities and institutions.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the underlying principles of positive psychology and future directions
  • Explain the characteristics and contributing factors of optimal experience
  • Understand and describe the broaden and build theory of positive emotions
  • Explain the importance of hope and optimism in wellbeing
  • Explain the role of emotional intelligence in performance
  • Be familiar with the various conceptualizations of resilience
  • Explain the impact of self efficacy and self esteem on performance and wellbeing
  • Explain how physical health impacts relationship health
  • Understand the role of positive psychology in organisations
  • Understand the impact of religion and spirituality on wellbeing

Content Areas

  • Introduction to Positive Psychology
  • Psychology of Flow
  • Positive Emotions
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Optimism and Hope
  • Resilience and Wellbeing
  • Self-Efficacy and Self-Esteem: The Power of Self Belief
  • Positive Relationships
  • Creativity
  • Positive Psychology in the Workplace and Beyond
  • Spirituality, Religion and Wellbeing
  • Future of Positive Psychology

Unit Duration and Workload

This unit involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery of self directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 54 hours of self-study per unit including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates to 7.5 hours per week for the unit.