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