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