According to Haidt and Gable, what are the major goals of positive psychology?
According to the article, why has psychology traditionally focused on studying non-positive phenomena? Do you think there is more pragmatic value generally in studying non-positive phenomena? Why or why not? Do you agree with the authors that "positive topics of inquiry are important to understand in their own right, not solely as buffers against the problems, stressors, and disorders of life"?
- "The Benefits of Frequent Positive Affect: Does Happiness Lead to Success?"
Lyubomirsky et al conduct a broad review of psychology literature that examines the relationship of happiness to various types of success. Describe one of the findings authors mention that is most surprising to you and explain why.
- "Positive Emotions Broaden and Build"
Explain the significance behind the naming Broaden-and-Build theory (that is, why it named the way it is?).
Describe one of the findings authors mention that is most surprising to you and explain why.
- “On Being Positive: Concerns and Counterpoints”
According to Fineman, how do cultural differences complicate what it means to be positive? Do you think that being positive as a virtue is a distinctly American phenomenon, or does each culture have its own way of being positive?
According to Fineman, what is the key reason that empowerment in organizations can fail to be a positive experience for employees? Do you think that employee empowerment is doomed as an idea, based on the evidence that Fineman presents in the article?
What are the potential pitfalls of positivity? Are there circumstances in which the idea of positivity could be used to unfairly punish those who disagree or who are different? How could this be prevented?
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