Positive Psychology: The Science of Well-Being (341-0-1)
Instructors
Wendi L Gardner
847/491-4972
Swift Hall 203
Meeting Info
Locy Hall 214: Tues 3:00PM - 5:50PM
Overview of class
Psychology has traditionally focused on understanding mental illness, rather than factors that lead to optimal mental well-being. This seminar will instead focus upon the questions asked within the growing science of positive psychology. What is happiness? Can happiness be learned, or is our happiness "setpoint" mostly determined by genetics? Do we know ourselves well enough to know what makes us happy, and if not, why not? Does money make us happy? Relationships? Life challenges? How do people create a sense of meaning in their lives? What types of situations encourage cognitive mastery and creativity? How do we, as a society, encourage connection, compassion and generosity? Students will read a mix of recent scientific journal articles and book chapters, will write discussion questions and take part in team exercises relevant to theory and data pertaining to positive psychology, will journal about their own experiences in trying to apply the findings of positive psychology in weekly well-being exercises, and will design their own positive psychology intervention. Students can expect to wrestle with some of the "big questions" about what makes a good life and a strong society in discussions with their classmates.
Registration Requirements
Psych 110
Teaching Method
In this seminar, students will read a mix of recent scientific journal articles and books, will write discussion questions and short opinion papers about theory and data pertaining to positive psychology, will journal about their own experiences in trying to apply the findings of positive psychology in weekly well-being exercises, and will design their own positive psychology intervention. Students can expect to wrestle with some of the "big questions" about what makes a good life and a strong society in discussions with their classmates.
Evaluation Method
Grading is based upon weekly discussion questions and quizzes, in class exercises and journaling, a midterm exam, a team presentation and an individual final paper.
Class Materials (Required)
All readings posted on Canvas; NO required textbook.
Class Attributes
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area