Positive Psychology
The Science of Well-Being
- John Zelenski - Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
Positive Psychology brings together a range of research and a comprehensive review of the more recent work and lessons learned since the founder’s original vision of this field. Organised into five sections: An Introduction, Positive Experiences, Personality Processes, External Influences, and Applications, this text provides a thorough introduction to an interesting and challenging area in Psychology. With a final look at the future of Positive Psychology, and its potential to inform social change and how useful this knowledge can be when considering the well-being of entire societies, this text is an enlightening read and invaluable resources for students.
Strongly guided by empirical work this text encourages the reader to think critically and go beyond the facts.
Key features:
- Provides a framework for teaching and understanding global trends in Positive Psychology.
- Inclusion and a review of up-to-date research.
- Using storytelling and happiness’s intrinsic appeal to foster interest in the methods we use to answer important questions in Positive Psychology.
- Online resources including student self-tests, an instructor test bank, instructor slides and links to additional web content.
Supplements
This website includes:
- An Instructor Testbank
- Student Multiple Choice Questions
- Flashcard glossary
The book starts with consideration of what Positive Psychology actually means. This is followed by chapters addressing happiness, emotions, environments and the future – for us as psychologists and the science. I particularly liked the highlighting of areas of deficiency in research so far, signposting areas where today’s students can innovate and explore.
It would seem the time is right for a more current teaching text and I found this book to be insightful and inspiring.
Simple & straightforward. I don't dig into the research as I teach the course for application.
I have requested a paperback copy so I can mark it up more easily. I also teach 2 sections of Positive Psych in the Spring.
This is a fascinating insight into how psychology can actively promote wellbeing. Really contemporary content combined with an engaging tone and helpful web links make this a must-read for any students keen to see how psychology can be applied in a positive way.
Useful text for trainee teachers, to bring about a positive way of thinking within professional contexts
Really useful information that leads into appreciative enquiry and professional midwifery advocacy. Clear and interesting.
Useful for psychology students more than trainee teachers but some useful information nevertheless. Have passed the booked on to our psychology department for adoption.
This is not a topic that is covered in my modules but an excellent book to have on the reading list.
