Lesson 3: Positive Psychology

subjective well-being

individual’s self-perceived happiness and overall life satisfaction

positive psychology

branch of psychology that focuses on the study of human strengths, virtues, and other factors that contribute to a fulfilling and meaningful life

feel-good, do-good phenomenon

concept that people are more likely to help others and engage in prosocial behavior when they are in a good mood

broaden-and-build theory

theory that suggests positive emotions like joy and love help people think more openly and creatively

character strengths and virtues

positive traits and qualities that are valued across cultures and contribute to an individual’s overall well-being and moral excellence

relative deprivation

perception that one is worse off compared to others, leading to feelings of dissatisfaction or resentment

adaptation-level phenomenon

tendency of people to quickly adjust to a new situation or level of experience and then consider it normal