Leading a positive life

                              Positive psychology and a positive life

Since the Second World War, much of psychology has been concerned with the alleviation of suffering, the repair of damage, and the treatment of illness. These are indeed laudable aims, and it is easy to see how they have attained dominance. But is that all that
psychology has to offer?

Psychology is the science of mind and behaviour, and as such a Martian visitor may be inclined to conclude that the human race is indeed sick – for there is little study of what
makes life worth living, the good things in life, or the good life.

Positive psychology sets out to right this balance. It does not seek to dismiss the important of studying pathology and treatment, but it argues that there is as much merit to
be gained in the study of optimal functioning and prevention.

If people are leading positive lives, it argues, that in itself serves to buffer many of the negative effects of difficult life events and circumstances, so preventing the
problem before the need for treatment even arises.

It is also tremendously empowering, for it argues that it power rests with the individual oneself, rather than being held in the hands of an all-knowing, all-powerful therapist.