The Science and Application of Positive Psychology

Positive psychology tackles the big questions: What does it mean to live a 'good life'? What helps people to flourish and access their optimal potential? And how can we increase our capacities for joy, meaning, and hope? This engaging textbook emphasizes the science of positive psychology - students don't simply learn about positive psychology in the abstract, but instead are exposed to the fascinating research that supports its conclusions.Bridging theory and practice, this textbook connects up-to-date research with real-world examples and guides students to apply evidence-based practices in their own lives. Its comprehensive coverage includes major new topics, such as spirituality, therapeutic interventions, mindfulness, and positive relationships. Featured pedagogy includes 'Are You Sure about That?' boxes presenting methodological and statistical principles in context, and 'Practice Positive Psychology' activities to extend student learning, while online resources include lecture slides, a test bank, and an instructor manual.

About the Author

Jennifer S. Cheavens, Professor of Psychology at The Ohio State University, is a teacher and scholar with expertise in positive psychology, particularly hope and gratitude. Dr. Cheavens was awarded the inaugural George Valliant Award for Contributions in Positive Clinical Psychology by the International Positive Psychology Association's Positive Clinical Psychology Division for her work in the development of hope therapy and capitalization models of treatment. She developed the Positive Psychology course at The Ohio State University, and has taught the course to approximately 240 undergraduate students annually for more than 10 years. She has been recognized with several teaching and mentorship awards.

David B. Feldman is Professor of Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University, where he has taught undergraduate and graduate students topics related to positive psychology for more than 15 years. In 2017, he was awarded the J. Thomas and Kathleen L. McCarthy endowed professorship in recognition of his commitment to teaching and research. His work focuses on hope, meaning, and growth in the face of serious illness and other life difficulties, and he has been instrumental in developing hope therapy and applying it to various populations. In addition to his research publications, he has coauthored three previous books and hosts both a radio show and a podcast.