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