A Primer in Positive Psychology

Provides students with an introduction to an important area of psychology. This book is grounded in scientific research and covers major topics of concern to the field: positive experiences such as pleasure and flow; positive traits such as character strengths, values, and talents; and the social institutions.

Positive psychology is the scientific study of what goes right in life, from birth to death and at all stops in between. Every life has peaks and valleys; positive psychology does not deny this valleys, but holds that: what is good about life is as genuine as what is bad and, therefore, deserves equal attention from psychologists. A Primer in Positive Psychology is thoroughly grounded in scientific research and covers major topics of concern to the field: positive experiences such as pleasure and flow; positive traits such as character strengths, values, and talents; and the social institutions that enable these subjects as well as what recent research might contribute to this knowledge. Every chapter contains exercises that illustrate positive psychology, a glossary, suggestions of articles and books for further reading, and lists of films, websites, and popular songs that embody chapter themes.A comprehensive overview of positive psychology by one of the acknowledged leaders in the field, this textbook provides students with a thorough introduction to an important area of psychology.