(3) Unit 1 - Positive Assumption Three - Acknowledgement of Free Will

What does the acknowledgement of free will assumption suggest?

That we have control of our own behaviour, something that the other approaches don’t follow.

What view of behaviour do most of the other approaches take?

Deterministic, suggesting that our behaviour is controlled by factors outside our control like brain structure (biological approach) or conditioning processes (behaviourist approach). This removes responsibility from individuals for their behaviour.

What does the positive approach instead suggest?

A much greater role for free will, suggesting that we have the free will to develop our signature strengths and have control over our own well-being. This means that happiness is successful to all of us as we are in control of our own lives and have the capacity to make choices.

What is free will and personal control associated with?

A greater subjective well-being.

Where can the acknowledgement of free will be seen?

In the use of mindfulness and quality of life therapy where individuals are encouraged to become more aware of their own feelings and emotions. Individuals are able to exercise free will to become more conscious of the present and use this to increase their levels of happiness.