Based on the first Summit of Positive Psychology, this book puts flesh on the emerging field of positive psychology. The text turns from psychology’s pre-occupation with mental illness to mental health. Unapologetically scholars discuss ‘the good life’ or flourishing. Cogent arguments are made for: resilience, optimism, enjoyment, meaning, goals, virtue, hope, creativity, genius, wisdom, work, play, and relationships.

Clinicians will appreciate the books professional and personal applications. The conceptual and practical groundwork is laid for interventions of the therapeutic kind, or the more personal challenges of one’s own, well-lived life.

Educational Objectives

• Have a greater appreciation of the concepts of ‘flourishing’ and of 'languishing'
• Appreciate what is gained and lost by the mental health community’s traditional focus on illness, problems, and weakness
• Have a more complete understanding of the beneficial effects of optimism, hope, well-being, goals, and the gratification of work and play
• Understand resilience and protective factors which encourage recovery from setbacks and adversity
• Possess a greater understanding of the benefits of looking beyond oneself in the quest to find a more meaningful life
• Have an increased appreciation for the current focus on mental health and flourishing

Syllabus / Course Instructions

• The Course consists of reading the selected book, successfully completing an online posttest and filling out a course evaluation.
• The book is not included. It must be purchased separately. We have supplied a link to Amazon.com for your convenience.
• Purchasing your course will give you access to both a printable copy of the test and an online version. Print the test to use as a companion as you read the book and answer the questions.
• You cannot exit the online test once you begin, so have your answers available.