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