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