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