This module introduces you to positive psychology as a field of psychological theory and research that focuses on the psychological states, individual traits or character strengths, and social institutions that enhance subjective well-being and make life worth living.

This module discusses the history of positive psychology, including early forebears of the discipline and contemporary contributors to positive psychology.

In this module, we discuss a theory that suggests that positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning in life, and accomplishment are the major factors that impact subjective well-being. We then present some additional factors that researchers identify as contributing to subjective well-being.

This module discusses the World Happiness Report, which focuses on how happiness and well-being are signs of progress, the measurement of happiness, and how these measurements can be used to make policy.

In this module, we discuss why we help others and how this experience increases our well-being and happiness. Norms of reciprocity and social responsibility will be explored as reasons why we help others. We’ll also introduce evolutionary and psychological factors to explain helping behavior. The effects of bystanders on a person’s helping behavior will be discussed. Finally, methods to increase helping behavior, such as teaching empathy and socializing helping, will be described.

This module contains the course summary, a review of all of the material you’ve learned in the course. It is broken down into one lesson for each of the course’s learning objectives. Within each lesson are a list of key takeaways, a list of key terms, and a set of practice questions to help you decide if you’ve understood the material. When you feel comfortable with the material presented here, move on to the next module and take the course’s cumulative quiz.

This module contains a quiz covering all of the material in this course. It will count for 30% of your total course grade, so make sure you’ve reviewed the course material well. Good luck!

This module contains a glossary, course references, and a list of contributors to the course.

This module provides a variety of information and tools from the American Psychological Association (APA) that will help inspire you as you complete your coursework and plan your career goals. Explore APA resources on various psychological issues and scholarly research and writing; a list of sites providing valuable resources on diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychology education and in the professional community; resources on a career in psychology; and links to career opportunities at the APA.