What is Positive Psychology? An Overview

Psychology has had a history of focusing on what may be viewed as "negative focuses" involving curing mental health conditions and focusing on human flaws. While these developments intended to provide support for individuals, they did not focus on any interventions, recognition of human potential, or the fact/focus on how psychology could be used for prevention or enhancing human lives for more happiness and functioning. Positive psychology emerged as a different wave of psychology bringing the missing positive orientation to the field.

The goals of positive psychology involve helping people to live more happier, fulfilled lives after realizing their character strengths and other virtues that can help them thrive. Thus, the major goal and focus of positive psychology is to increase flourishing.