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