PSYC 1145 - Positive Psychology: The Study of Happiness and Well-Being

1. Explain the scope and aim of positive psychology and place it in its historical context within the field of psychology.
2. Discuss how the definition of happiness has varied across cultures and historical periods.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the dimensions of subjective well-being and its application to the student’s own life.
4. Discuss research that supports the principles, strategies, and skills of positive psychology.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the key theories and terminology in the field of positive psychology.
6. Demonstrate the ability to distinguish between science and intuition on a topic about which most people have a strong intuitive bias.
7. Identify the attitudes, traits, and behaviors correlated with happiness.
8. Identify ways in which relationships and social institutions can contribute to (or interfere with) the experience of happiness.

1. Introduction to positive psychology
   • What is positive psychology?
   • Why is positive psychology needed within the field?
2. Cultural/historical overview of happiness
3. Introduction to research methods
4. Positive emotions
   • What does it mean to be happy?
   • Emotional correlates of happiness
5. Cognitive correlates of happiness
   • Optimism
   • Gratitude
   • Mindfulness
   • Meditation
6. Behaviors that promote well-being
   • Altruism
   • Finding flow
   • Exercise and nutrition
7. The role of relationships
   • Love
   • Family
   • Communities
8. The role of institutions
   • Work
   • School
   • Religion
9. Future directions