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