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