Transcript title
Positive Psychology
Credits
4
Grading mode
Standard letter grades
Total contact hours
40
Lecture hours
40
Recommended preparation
WR 060 (or higher) or minimum placement Wr/Comm Level 5.
Course Description
Explores the components necessary to help a person flourish in their environment by addressing the biopsychosocial aspects that contribute to positive behaviors and human strengths. Provides an overview of the theories of happiness and the importance of self-care and positive social cognitions, as well as how to utilize strengths in personal and professional venues and achieve healthy relationships personally and within one's community.
Course learning outcomes
1. Identify basic concepts and research findings.
2. Draw logical and objective conclusions about behavior and mental processes from empirical evidence.
3. Describe ways in which individual identities, worldviews, values, and biases are shaped by multiple biological, cultural, and social influences.
4. Analyze how psychological principles can affect personal lives, work environments, and communities in positive ways.
Content outline
- Introduction to positive psychology, research and scientific literacy
- Stress and implementing positive behavioral change
- Cross-cultural understanding of happiness and well-being
- How culture shapes outlook and to use positive psychology tactics to boost resilience and growth mindset in face of challenges and failure
- Importance of play, flow states, and hobbies in innovation and creativity
- Understanding workplace burnout, how to prevent, and finding meaningful work
- Social interactions: conflict resolution, relationships, and healthy boundaries
- Positive communities: how to become an agent of positive change in social groups, systems, and communities
- Global change: understand social dilemmas and how to intervene to advocate for sustainable communities
Required materials
Textbook required.
General education/Related instruction lists
- Human Relations
- Social Science
- Cultural Literacy
