Discussion Prompt: Authentic Happiness

Happiness is a relative term. Ponder the meaning of authentic happiness by Dr. Martin Seligman. He is known as the founder of the movement “Positive Psychology”. Dr. Christopher Kaczor is also a trailblazer in this newer area of “Transformational Psychology.”

The following statement by Martin Seligman (2002) is powerful.

“Not only do happy people endure pain better and take more health and safety precautions when threatened, but positive emotions undo negative emotions” (Seligman, 2002).

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 also speaks to the power of Transformational Psychology.

As you review this week’s content, think about how Positive Psychology is different than Transformational Psychology. There is a distinct difference between these terms; although they are both inter-related. Both positive and negative psychology play a role in our lives. Let’s look at Transformational Psychology from a personal lens.

• Share a specific example from your life that connects to 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. What is a time in which God’s grace has been sufficient for you and His power has been made perfect in weakness?
• Do you agree with the Seligman quote? Why or why not? Include detail to support your statements.
• Provide real-world examples of transformational psychology and positive psychology to demonstrate your awareness of the differences and similarities between the two approaches. Cite text to support your answer.

Be sure to cite all of your references in-text and include the APA references at the end of your initial post.

Reading:

Johnson, E. L. (2010) Psychology & Christianity: Five views (2nd ed.).

• Chapter 4: A Christian Psychology View (focus on The Promise of Christian Psychology)

Gruman et al. (2018). Incorporating balance: Challenges and opportunities for positive psychology. Canadian Psychology, 59(1), 54-64. https://search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.ccu.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=pdh&AN=2017-28265-001&site=eds-live

Viewing:

Video: The New Era of Positive Psychology: Martin Seligman (23:42)