Glossary
Gratitude
A positive emotion characterized by appreciation for the positive aspects of life, often involving acknowledging the kindness of others or good fortune.
Example:
Keeping a daily journal where you list three things you are thankful for is a common practice to cultivate gratitude.
Gratitude Interventions
Structured activities or practices designed to cultivate and increase feelings of gratitude, often leading to improved well-being and positive emotions.
Example:
Sending a thank-you note to someone who helped you is a simple yet effective gratitude intervention.
Positive Psychology
The scientific study of what makes life most worth living, focusing on human flourishing and well-being rather than solely on pathology and dysfunction.
Example:
Instead of only studying mental illnesses, positive psychology also investigates what makes people feel joy, purpose, and resilience.
Positive Psychology Approach
A perspective in psychology that shifts focus from repairing what is wrong to building what is strong, emphasizing individual and societal well-being, strengths, and psychological health.
Example:
A school counselor using a positive psychology approach might help students identify their unique talents to boost self-esteem, rather than just addressing their academic struggles.
Positive Subjective Experiences
The 'good vibes' or positive feelings and states that individuals experience, such as gratitude, joy, inspiration, and contentment.
Example:
Feeling a rush of excitement when you master a new skill is an example of a positive subjective experience.
Posttraumatic Growth
Positive psychological change experienced as a result of struggling with highly challenging, adverse, or traumatic life circumstances.
Example:
After overcoming a serious illness, someone might develop a deeper appreciation for life and stronger relationships, demonstrating posttraumatic growth.
Signature Strengths
An individual's core positive traits and capacities that are authentic, energizing, and lead to high performance and engagement when used.
Example:
If you are naturally very creative and enjoy using that skill to solve problems, creativity is likely one of your signature strengths.
VIA Classification System
A framework developed by the Values in Action Institute that categorizes 24 character strengths into six universal virtues, providing a common language for human strengths.
Example:
The VIA Classification System helps people identify if their top strengths fall under virtues like Wisdom, Courage, or Justice.