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