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