Positive psychology offers approaches that go beyond reducing body positivity symptoms toward building the conditions for genuine flourishing.
PERMA and Body Positivity
Martin Seligman's PERMA model identifies five elements of wellbeing relevant to body positivity:
- Positive emotions: Deliberately cultivating joy, gratitude, and pleasure alongside body positivity treatment
- Engagement: Flow states that create absorption and counter body positivity
- Relationships: Quality connections that buffer against body positivity
- Meaning: Purpose that persists despite body positivity
- Achievement: Progress toward goals, even while managing body positivity
Signature Strengths and Body Positivity
Research shows that using your top character strengths in new ways is a robust body positivity intervention. The VIA Character Strengths survey identifies your strengths.
Integrating Positive Psychology with Body Positivity Treatment
Positive psychology doesn't replace body positivity treatment — it complements it. Treating body positivity removes obstacles; positive psychology builds the structure of a fulfilling life.