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