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