balcerzak positive psychology iugs summer 2012

Balcerzak/IUGS/July 2012Balcerzak/IUGS/July 2012

POSITIVE POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGYPSYCHOLOGY

Dr. Judith BalcerzakDr. Judith BalcerzakInternational University International University

for Graduate Studiesfor Graduate StudiesSummer 2012 ResidencySummer 2012 Residency


Definition:Definition:

The scientific study of ordinary human The scientific study of ordinary human

strengths and virtues. It revisits the strengths and virtues. It revisits the

““average person” with an interest in average person” with an interest in

finding out what works, what’s right, andfinding out what works, what’s right, and

what’s improving.what’s improving.


Seligman and Csikszentmihalyi Introduced Positive Psychology(2000) stating:

The field of positive psychology at the subjective level is about valued subjective experiences: well-being contentment satisfaction (in the past) hope and optimism (for the future) flow and happiness (in the present)


At the individual level, it is About positive individual traits:

The capacity for love and vocation,

Courage, interpersonal skill, aesthetic sensibility, perseverance,

Forgiveness, originality, future mindedness, spirituality, high talent, and wisdom


At the group (collective) level:It is about the civic virtues and the institutions that move individuals toward better citizenship: responsibility nurturance altruism civility moderation tolerance, and work ethic (Seligman and Csikzentimihalyi, 2000)


It asks:It asks:

What is the nature of the efficientlyWhat is the nature of the efficiently

functioning human being, successfully functioning human being, successfully

applying evolved adaptations and applying evolved adaptations and

learned skills? learned skills?

And how can psychologists explain the fact And how can psychologists explain the fact

that most people, despite all the difficulties, that most people, despite all the difficulties,

manage to live effective lives”?manage to live effective lives”?


It studies what people do RIGHTIt studies what people do RIGHT

It’s an attempt to urge us to It’s an attempt to urge us to

adopt a more open and appreciative adopt a more open and appreciative

perspective regarding human perspective regarding human

potentials, motives, and capacities.potentials, motives, and capacities.


The Dimensions of The Dimensions of Positive PsychologyPositive Psychology


Include:Include:

1. Positive subjective states1. Positive subjective states

2. Positive individual traits or the more2. Positive individual traits or the more

enduring and persistent behavior enduring and persistent behavior

patterns seen in people over time. patterns seen in people over time.

3. Positive institutions3. Positive institutions


The scope of positive The scope of positive psychology??psychology??

Early accomplishment in positive Early accomplishment in positive

psychology: helping psychologists psychology: helping psychologists

pay attention to what people do right.pay attention to what people do right.


Remember the Remember the earlyearly mission of mission of psychology was to:psychology was to:

Cure mental illness Cure mental illness Find and nurture genius and talentFind and nurture genius and talent

Make normal life more fulfilling (people Make normal life more fulfilling (people need challenges , tasks that test their need challenges , tasks that test their skills, opportunities for learning new skills, opportunities for learning new ideas and developing new talents as ideas and developing new talents as well as the freedom to re-invent well as the freedom to re-invent themselves throughout their lives.themselves throughout their lives.


Early Psychology’s achievement was Early Psychology’s achievement was to help people move from a state of to help people move from a state of negative negative emotions to what might be emotions to what might be “neutral emotions”. “neutral emotions”.

The question of The question of how to be happy was how to be happy was NOT central to the direction of NOT central to the direction of psychologypsychology


By contrast…By contrast…

Today, positive psychology has takenToday, positive psychology has taken

up the challenge to focus attention ofup the challenge to focus attention of

how to nurture genius and talent as wellhow to nurture genius and talent as well

as how to help people lead lives that are as how to help people lead lives that are

more fulfilling.more fulfilling.


Importance of Positive Emotions to both Importance of Positive Emotions to both Mental and Physical Health.Mental and Physical Health.

True, psychology DOES need to study serious True, psychology DOES need to study serious social and psychological problems (drug use, social and psychological problems (drug use, crime, response to trauma, and/ or serious M/I).crime, response to trauma, and/ or serious M/I).

Positive Psychology does not reject the need to Positive Psychology does not reject the need to study and to attempt to eliminate social and study and to attempt to eliminate social and personal problems, but….personal problems, but….

Study of Positive Emotions can actually help to Study of Positive Emotions can actually help to fight these problems.fight these problems.


Importance of Positive Emotions to both Importance of Positive Emotions to both Mental and Physical Health:Mental and Physical Health:

Newer forms of TX. focus on positive emotions and Newer forms of TX. focus on positive emotions and adaptive coping strategiesadaptive coping strategies

People who express and experience positive emotions People who express and experience positive emotions more often are likely to be satisfied with their lives and more often are likely to be satisfied with their lives and have more rewarding interpersonal relationshipshave more rewarding interpersonal relationships

People who experience and express positive emotions are People who experience and express positive emotions are also more likely to be physically healthy, more resistant to also more likely to be physically healthy, more resistant to illness and may live longer (e.g., Dominica).illness and may live longer (e.g., Dominica).

Positive Psychology is an ATTITUDE that people can take Positive Psychology is an ATTITUDE that people can take to research, to other people, & to themselves.to research, to other people, & to themselves.


The “Good Life”The “Good Life”

Factors that contribute most to a well-Factors that contribute most to a well-lived and fulfilling life. lived and fulfilling life.

Seligman (2000) defines the good life as Seligman (2000) defines the good life as ““using your signature strengths everyusing your signature strengths every day to produce authentic happiness andday to produce authentic happiness and abundant gratification. abundant gratification.

““Good Life” Includes 3 Elements:Good Life” Includes 3 Elements:


3 Elements:3 Elements:

Positive connections to othersPositive connections to others

Positive individual traitsPositive individual traits

Life regulating qualitiesLife regulating qualities


A. A. Positive connections to Positive connections to othersothers

Ability to loveAbility to love

The presence of altruismThe presence of altruism

The ability to forgiveThe ability to forgive

The presence of spiritual connections to The presence of spiritual connections to help create deeper & purposehelp create deeper & purpose


B. Positive individual traitsB. Positive individual traits

Sense of integritySense of integrity

Ability to playAbility to play

Ability to be creativeAbility to be creative

Traits like courage and humilityTraits like courage and humility


C. Life regulating qualitiesC. Life regulating qualities

Individuality or autonomyIndividuality or autonomy

High degree of healthy self High degree of healthy self controlcontrol

Presence of wisdom to guide Presence of wisdom to guide behaviorbehavior


Positive Psychology isPositive Psychology is

A focus on what makes the kind of life A focus on what makes the kind of life

for human beings that leads to the for human beings that leads to the

greatest sense of well being, greatest sense of well being,

satisfaction, contentment, and “satisfaction, contentment, and “the the

good life”good life”..


New Assumptions of Human New Assumptions of Human Behavior: Behavior:

People are highly adaptive and desire People are highly adaptive and desire positive social relationships positive social relationships

People can Thrive and FlourishPeople can Thrive and Flourish

Strengths and virtues are central to Strengths and virtues are central to human wellbeinghuman wellbeing

People exist in social contextsPeople exist in social contexts


All positive emotions are not the All positive emotions are not the same. same.

For Example:For Example:

Enjoyment Enjoyment and and pleasurepleasure are not the are not the samesame

PleasurePleasure can be defined as the good can be defined as the good feeling that comes from satisfying feeling that comes from satisfying needs and meeting expectations, it needs and meeting expectations, it must be continually renewed by must be continually renewed by pleasure experiences.pleasure experiences.


Pleasure:Pleasure:

Body pleasures are based Body pleasures are based

on biological needs andon biological needs and

Higher pleasures are Higher pleasures are

based on experiences that based on experiences that

feel good but are more feel good but are more

cognitively complexcognitively complex


Enjoyment is:Enjoyment is:

Enjoyment Enjoyment involves meeting involves meeting

expectations of fulfillingexpectations of fulfilling a need and a need and

Then going beyond those expectationsThen going beyond those expectations

to create something new, unexpected, to create something new, unexpected,

or even unimagined.or even unimagined.


Should the goal be to eliminate Should the goal be to eliminate negative emotions? NO!negative emotions? NO!

Negative Emotions are still Negative Emotions are still importantimportant..

(we would be (we would be very very vulnerable if we vulnerable if we

eliminated fear, anxiety or skepticism eliminated fear, anxiety or skepticism from our lives—they help with survival)!from our lives—they help with survival)!

Even tragedy can enrich our experience Even tragedy can enrich our experience of being human (even though it is of being human (even though it is painful)painful)


The 20The 20thth Century Century

Freud—the U/C, search for wellbeing, happiness Freud—the U/C, search for wellbeing, happiness could be helped or hindered by U/C.could be helped or hindered by U/C.

Today, we know that U/C factors are not Today, we know that U/C factors are not necessarily as overwhelmingly significant as necessarily as overwhelmingly significant as Freud imagined. (this is not to say that there is Freud imagined. (this is not to say that there is NOT U/C)NOT U/C)

One of the goals of PP is to being some One of the goals of PP is to being some understanding of these various perspectives on understanding of these various perspectives on the good life and well being.the good life and well being.


Summary:Summary:Positive Psychology is new but gathering respect and Positive Psychology is new but gathering respect and

credibility. credibility.

APA Journal had two full issues devoted to articles APA Journal had two full issues devoted to articles on Positive Psychology (Jan 2000 and Mar 2001).on Positive Psychology (Jan 2000 and Mar 2001).

The First Summit on Positive Psychology was held in The First Summit on Positive Psychology was held in Lincoln Nebraska in 1999.Lincoln Nebraska in 1999.

Second Summit, 2000 in Washington D.C.Second Summit, 2000 in Washington D.C.

As of this time, Positive Psychology seems well on its way As of this time, Positive Psychology seems well on its way to permanence in psychological thought.to permanence in psychological thought.


Hope theoryHope theory


Hope is the result of two Hope is the result of two processes:processes:

1. 1. PathwaysPathways or believing that one can or believing that one can find waysfind ways to reach desired goals. to reach desired goals.

2. 2. Agency:Agency: believing that one can believing that one can become motivated enough to pursue become motivated enough to pursue those goals.those goals.


Cantor & Sanderson (1999)Cantor & Sanderson (1999)Suggest that the reason that goal pursuit Suggest that the reason that goal pursuit

is associated with wellbeing is because itis associated with wellbeing is because it

implies that people are active implies that people are active

participants in life! (like earning a PhD)participants in life! (like earning a PhD)

The pursuit of goals is an indication that The pursuit of goals is an indication that

people are taking part in life.people are taking part in life.


Participating in Life:Participating in Life:

Greater wellbeing is found through Greater wellbeing is found through

participating in activities that are participating in activities that are

intrinsically motivating, freely chosen, intrinsically motivating, freely chosen,

desired, and involve realistic goals.desired, and involve realistic goals.


Newer theories of motivation viewNewer theories of motivation view

people as actively involved in seekingpeople as actively involved in seeking

out intrinsically satisfying experiences out intrinsically satisfying experiences

and engaging in continuous and engaging in continuous

development.development.


SUBJECTIVE WELL SUBJECTIVE WELL BEINGBEING

Happiness and Life SatisfactionHappiness and Life Satisfaction


Predictors of SubjectivePredictors of Subjective Well-Being Well-Being


Six Predictors of Subjective Six Predictors of Subjective Well Being:Well Being:

Positive Self EsteemPositive Self Esteem

Sense of Perceived ControlSense of Perceived Control

ExtroversionExtroversion

OptimismOptimism

Positive Social RelationshipsPositive Social Relationships

A sense of meaning and purpose in lifeA sense of meaning and purpose in life


Self EsteemSelf Esteem

Positive self esteem is associated with subjective well being.Positive self esteem is associated with subjective well being.

(+) self esteem is associated with adaptive functioning(+) self esteem is associated with adaptive functioning in almost all areas of life.in almost all areas of life.

(+) self esteem correlated with:(+) self esteem correlated with:

Less delinquency, better anger control, greater Less delinquency, better anger control, greater intimacy, more satisfaction in relationships, more intimacy, more satisfaction in relationships, more ability to care for others, heightened creativity and ability to care for others, heightened creativity and productivity.productivity.


Is Self Esteem Culture Related?Is Self Esteem Culture Related?

To some degree, yes.To some degree, yes.

Less important in collectivistic cultures than Less important in collectivistic cultures than

in individualistic cultures.in individualistic cultures.

““Happiness” is not found as consistently inHappiness” is not found as consistently in

some cultures.some cultures.


Sense of Perceived ControlSense of Perceived Control

Locus of ControlLocus of ControlInternal locus of control=tends to attribute outcomes to Internal locus of control=tends to attribute outcomes to self directed efforts rather than to external events.self directed efforts rather than to external events.

External locus of control= is the belief that outcomes External locus of control= is the belief that outcomes in one’s life are the result of factors outside the person’s in one’s life are the result of factors outside the person’s area of immediate control.area of immediate control.

Chance=NO ONE IS IN CHARGE OF OUTCOMESChance=NO ONE IS IN CHARGE OF OUTCOMES


Perception of Control, cont.Perception of Control, cont.

Pearson (1999), defines personal control as the Pearson (1999), defines personal control as the

individual’s belief that he/she can behave in ways that individual’s belief that he/she can behave in ways that maximize good outcomes and minimize bad outcomes.maximize good outcomes and minimize bad outcomes.

Basic Ingredient of Personal Control:Basic Ingredient of Personal Control:

The belief that one can interact with the The belief that one can interact with the world in order to maximize good outcomesworld in order to maximize good outcomesor minimize bad outcomes, or both.or minimize bad outcomes, or both.


Personal Control ranges from beliefs and Personal Control ranges from beliefs and

expectations, to making actual choices, expectations, to making actual choices,

dealing with the consequences of choices, dealing with the consequences of choices,

and finding meaning from reflecting on the and finding meaning from reflecting on the

process.process.


ExtroversionExtroversion Up to .80 Correlation between extroversion and self-Up to .80 Correlation between extroversion and self-

reported happiness.reported happiness.

Can predict levels of happiness up to 30 years from initial Can predict levels of happiness up to 30 years from initial testing!testing!

Study by Larsen and Kasimatis (1990): University Study by Larsen and Kasimatis (1990): University students reported their daily moods over a week’s time, students reported their daily moods over a week’s time, extroverts reported an average of 2.0 on a 3.0 scale of extroverts reported an average of 2.0 on a 3.0 scale of happiness, introverts reported average 1.0 on 3.0 scale. happiness, introverts reported average 1.0 on 3.0 scale. (Both were above neutral point of 0.0)(Both were above neutral point of 0.0)

Weekend effect: after Wednesday, scores went up until Weekend effect: after Wednesday, scores went up until Sunday!Sunday!


Extroversion, cont.Extroversion, cont. And, wellbeing is related to the number of friends one And, wellbeing is related to the number of friends one

has.has.

Genetic differences? Maybe. Some are born with greater Genetic differences? Maybe. Some are born with greater sensitivity to (+) rewards.sensitivity to (+) rewards.

So, it may be that extroverts report greater well being So, it may be that extroverts report greater well being because they are born with a pre-disposition to because they are born with a pre-disposition to experience positive rewards.experience positive rewards.

Studies indicate that happier people encode events in Studies indicate that happier people encode events in more positive ways. (mood dependent learning)more positive ways. (mood dependent learning)


OptimismOptimism

Optimism about the future correlated with Optimism about the future correlated with

happiness and life satisfaction.happiness and life satisfaction.

““Dispositional OptimismDispositional Optimism”—global ”—global expectation that things will work out. (hope)expectation that things will work out. (hope)

““Explanatory StyleExplanatory Style”—people explain the ”—people explain the causes of events in a way that is positive. causes of events in a way that is positive.


OptimismOptimism

We may be able to learn to be more optimistic by paying We may be able to learn to be more optimistic by paying attention to how we explain events in life to ourselves!attention to how we explain events in life to ourselves!

Referred to as “learned optimism”.Referred to as “learned optimism”.

Realistic Optimism: optimistic thinking that does not depart Realistic Optimism: optimistic thinking that does not depart from reality. An honest recognition of opportunities in evenfrom reality. An honest recognition of opportunities in eventhe most difficult Situations.the most difficult Situations.

vs. vs.

“ “Unrealistic Optimism”: recall Thelma and Louise) Unrealistic Optimism”: recall Thelma and Louise) (a type of denial).(a type of denial).


Positive RelationshipsPositive Relationships One of the few One of the few truly universal relationshipstruly universal relationships

between high subjective well being & satisfaction between high subjective well being & satisfaction and (+) relationships.and (+) relationships.

Holds up in cross cultural studies.Holds up in cross cultural studies.

Involves two aspects:Involves two aspects:

1.1. Social supportSocial support

2.2. Emotional IntimacyEmotional Intimacy


Emotional Intimacy:Emotional Intimacy:

(Seligman and Diener,2002) The happiest (Seligman and Diener,2002) The happiest

10% of college students= what 10% of college students= what

distinguishing quality? distinguishing quality?

A fulfilling social life, a romantic A fulfilling social life, a romantic partner, & intimate friendships.partner, & intimate friendships.


Social ContactSocial Contact

Feeling happy may Feeling happy may increaseincrease with social with social contact. (so one question we ask clients or students or our contact. (so one question we ask clients or students or our

families or ourselves is:families or ourselves is:

““how often do you spend time with friends? How often do how often do you spend time with friends? How often do you have lunch or dinner with friends? Etc.).you have lunch or dinner with friends? Etc.).

The relationship between well being and positive social The relationship between well being and positive social relationships may be “reciprocal”. (People who have relationships may be “reciprocal”. (People who have Positive social relationships may have greater Positive social relationships may have greater wellbeing and people who have greater wellbeing may wellbeing and people who have greater wellbeing may have positive relationships).have positive relationships).


A Sense of A Sense of Meaning and PurposeMeaning and Purpose Studies suggest that people who report greater Studies suggest that people who report greater

religious faith, greater importance to religion, religious faith, greater importance to religion, and more frequent attendance at religious and more frequent attendance at religious services also report services also report greater well beinggreater well being..

Religion provides social support and enhances Religion provides social support and enhances self esteem.self esteem.

Religion can help to reduce or even eliminate Religion can help to reduce or even eliminate existential anxiety and fear of death. (unless the existential anxiety and fear of death. (unless the faith traditions of the religion are very shaming, faith traditions of the religion are very shaming, accusatory, or guilt evoking, then maybe not so accusatory, or guilt evoking, then maybe not so much)!much)!


What’s NOT related to HappinessWhat’s NOT related to Happiness

Money, income, wealth: does it matter?Money, income, wealth: does it matter?

Gender: are men or women happier?Gender: are men or women happier?

Age: is one age group happier than another?Age: is one age group happier than another?

Race and ethnicity: are there differences?Race and ethnicity: are there differences?

Education and climate: Are educated people who live in Education and climate: Are educated people who live in pleasant weather conditions any happier?pleasant weather conditions any happier?


SMALL GROUP DISCUSS.SMALL GROUP DISCUSS.

SHARE CONCLUSIONS WITH SHARE CONCLUSIONS WITH LARGER GROUPLARGER GROUP


Money, Income, WealthMoney, Income, Wealth

Income and subjective wellbeing: GNP does correlate with average life Income and subjective wellbeing: GNP does correlate with average life satisfaction at about .50 (mild correlation).satisfaction at about .50 (mild correlation).

Results Results not true in all countriesnot true in all countries. E.g., Irish as happy as Americans, . E.g., Irish as happy as Americans, but GNP is much lower.but GNP is much lower.

Happiness levels did not rise significantly from 1946 to 1970’s though Happiness levels did not rise significantly from 1946 to 1970’s though GNP did and personal incomes rose substantially.GNP did and personal incomes rose substantially.

Somewhat of a negative relationship between rising disposable income Somewhat of a negative relationship between rising disposable income and “I’m very happy” responses over time.and “I’m very happy” responses over time.


So can money buy happiness or So can money buy happiness or not?not?

NO!NO!

Example of lottery winners.Example of lottery winners.


Adaptation ProcessesAdaptation Processes Winners now believe that the future will be easier and Winners now believe that the future will be easier and

more pleasant.more pleasant.

They believe their increased income will allow them to They believe their increased income will allow them to meet various needs.meet various needs.

They also believe that money will help to lessen anxiety, They also believe that money will help to lessen anxiety, worry, and fear.worry, and fear.

Adaptation theory: when exposed to a certain level of Adaptation theory: when exposed to a certain level of stimulus, we become habituated and adapt to that level stimulus, we become habituated and adapt to that level quickly (for most life changes, we adapt within 3 quickly (for most life changes, we adapt within 3 months).months).


Will Money Eliminate Worry?Will Money Eliminate Worry?

A trip to the Caribbean can relieve tension but the A trip to the Caribbean can relieve tension but the increase in happiness and the accompanying increase in happiness and the accompanying reduction in stress can leave one blind to some reduction in stress can leave one blind to some of larger relationships involved.of larger relationships involved.

Although money can alleviate some worries, it Although money can alleviate some worries, it would be naïve to think that money can eliminate would be naïve to think that money can eliminate all worries and fears.all worries and fears.


Gender: Are Men or Women Gender: Are Men or Women Happier?Happier?

No significant differencesNo significant differences

Women report experiencing and expressing all emotions Women report experiencing and expressing all emotions both more frequently and more intensely than men.both more frequently and more intensely than men.

Women report a greater capacity for joy.Women report a greater capacity for joy.

Men are “over-represented” in cases involving “over-Men are “over-represented” in cases involving “over-expression of emotions like anger, anti-social PD, expression of emotions like anger, anti-social PD, impulse control problems, and ETOH use.impulse control problems, and ETOH use.


Good News!Good News!

Neither gender is doomed to be more or Neither gender is doomed to be more or less happy than the other!less happy than the other!


Age Differences:Age Differences:

Young people do experience more intense Young people do experience more intense emotions than older people but not emotions than older people but not necessarily higher levels of subjective necessarily higher levels of subjective wellbeing.wellbeing.

Compared to younger people, older Compared to younger people, older people are more people are more satisfiedsatisfied w/their lives w/their lives


Age Differences, cont.Age Differences, cont.

Older women less happy than older men.Older women less happy than older men.

Argyle: (1999) Men’s happiness ratings show Argyle: (1999) Men’s happiness ratings show relatively steady increase as they aged while relatively steady increase as they aged while women’s happiness increased up to age 25, women’s happiness increased up to age 25, then dip slightly from age 25 to age 35, followed then dip slightly from age 25 to age 35, followed by steadily increasing happiness ratings. (What by steadily increasing happiness ratings. (What might this mean or what could contribute to might this mean or what could contribute to this)?this)?


Race and Ethnicity, some limited Race and Ethnicity, some limited data:data:

Compared to While Americans, AfricanCompared to While Americans, African

American adults often report lower levels ofAmerican adults often report lower levels of

self esteem, but AA children may report self esteem, but AA children may report

higher levels of self esteem. (Argyle, 1999).higher levels of self esteem. (Argyle, 1999).

But another study suggests that AA adults But another study suggests that AA adults

over 55 tend to be happier than white adultsover 55 tend to be happier than white adults

over 55. (so “there are lies, damn lies, and over 55. (so “there are lies, damn lies, and statistics”)!statistics”)!


Education and Climate:Education and Climate:

Education is an important variable only Education is an important variable only

when all income levels are included. Once a when all income levels are included. Once a

person’s income is at a certain level, additional person’s income is at a certain level, additional

education does not seem to impact self reported education does not seem to impact self reported

happiness. (Earlier in life more education usually happiness. (Earlier in life more education usually

translates to higher income, but less so today).translates to higher income, but less so today).


Climate:Climate:

Some studies suggest that climate does not Some studies suggest that climate does not

seriously affect levels of happiness and seriously affect levels of happiness and

satisfaction. (so a trip to a tropical island satisfaction. (so a trip to a tropical island

may provide temporary relaxation, but is not may provide temporary relaxation, but is not

considered a lasting source of happiness)considered a lasting source of happiness)


Additional CommentsAdditional Comments

Factors seem related: High self-esteem, Factors seem related: High self-esteem,

perceived control, optimism, sense of perceived control, optimism, sense of

meaning, and few inner conflicts all suggestmeaning, and few inner conflicts all suggest

a person has emotional balance and that a person has emotional balance and that

balance is related to satisfaction. balance is related to satisfaction.


Happy people tend to have more (+) social Happy people tend to have more (+) social relationships, and might be more extroverted. relationships, and might be more extroverted.

A person who is $$ comfortable may feel on = A person who is $$ comfortable may feel on = ground w/others. ground w/others.

People who report higher levels of happiness alsoPeople who report higher levels of happiness alsoseem to have balance to meet life’s demands.”seem to have balance to meet life’s demands.”


And,And,

When people perceive themselves (+) willWhen people perceive themselves (+) will

present selves to others in a (+) light and present selves to others in a (+) light and

therefore reinforce their self-esteem. This therefore reinforce their self-esteem. This

cycle of subjective wellbeing produces a cycle of subjective wellbeing produces a

sense that life has meaning and purpose,sense that life has meaning and purpose,

and makes sense! (all adding to self-esteemand makes sense! (all adding to self-esteem

and subjective wellbeingand subjective wellbeing)”)”


6 Variables that are core predictors 6 Variables that are core predictors of well being:of well being:

1.1. Positive self esteem.Positive self esteem.

2.2. Sense of perceived control.Sense of perceived control.

3.3. Optimism.Optimism.

4.4. A sense of meaning and purpose.A sense of meaning and purpose.

5.5. Extroverted personality.Extroverted personality.

6.6. Positive relationships with others.Positive relationships with others.


How?How?

By enhancing interpretations of life eventsBy enhancing interpretations of life events

and and

By fostering the pursuit of life goalsBy fostering the pursuit of life goals


Leisure, Optimal Leisure, Optimal Experience and Peak Experience and Peak

PerformancePerformance


LEISURELEISURE


Leisure and Life SatisfactionLeisure and Life Satisfaction United Way study in 1992: 70% of those United Way study in 1992: 70% of those

surveyed said they’d like to slow downsurveyed said they’d like to slow down

Spend more time with familiesSpend more time with families

Campbell, Converse, and Rogers (1976) Campbell, Converse, and Rogers (1976) found that satisfaction with leisure (life found that satisfaction with leisure (life outside work) was one of the variables that outside work) was one of the variables that showed a strong predictor or global wellbeing showed a strong predictor or global wellbeing


What we think we know…What we think we know… Happiness and satisfaction with leisure Happiness and satisfaction with leisure

significantly correlatedsignificantly correlated

Satisfaction begins in adolescenceSatisfaction begins in adolescence

One study followed 1521 HS seniors for 24 One study followed 1521 HS seniors for 24 years and found that more participation in years and found that more participation in leisure activities in HS predicted higher lifeleisure activities in HS predicted higher life satisfaction in adulthood.satisfaction in adulthood.


What we think we know, cont….What we think we know, cont….

Successful aging is correlated with regular Successful aging is correlated with regular participation in activities (might be #1 in participation in activities (might be #1 in older women).older women).

Most correlation when activities involve Most correlation when activities involve activityactivity

Relationship between exercise and mood.Relationship between exercise and mood.


What Turns Activity into Leisure?What Turns Activity into Leisure?

In a study in the UK, the highest ranked reasons for leisure In a study in the UK, the highest ranked reasons for leisure were:were:

Fulfills need for autonomyFulfills need for autonomy

Allowed the enjoyment of family lifeAllowed the enjoyment of family life

Provided for relaxationProvided for relaxation

Offered escape from routineOffered escape from routine


Activities vs. LeisureActivities vs. Leisure

Boredom is not having NOTHING TO DO, but Boredom is not having NOTHING TO DO, but not being able to choose what to do.not being able to choose what to do.

Leisure may be related to autonomyLeisure may be related to autonomy

Leisure may be related to quietude and Leisure may be related to quietude and relaxation but also to challengesrelaxation but also to challenges


Activities vs. LeisureActivities vs. Leisure

While some activities involve “solitude” others While some activities involve “solitude” others contribute to satisfaction because they involve contribute to satisfaction because they involve socialization. (music alone and with others)socialization. (music alone and with others)

Activities that provide a sense of wellbeing Activities that provide a sense of wellbeing should be meaningful to the person, provide for should be meaningful to the person, provide for a sense of autonomy, be a break from routine, a sense of autonomy, be a break from routine, and involve frequent positive relationships with and involve frequent positive relationships with others.others.


Flow and Optimal Flow and Optimal Experience:Experience:

Being in the “Zone”Being in the “Zone”

The work of The work of

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1975)Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1975)


The work of The work of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1975)Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1975)

Interviewed chess players and basketball players, Interviewed chess players and basketball players, dancers, and rock climbers to learn their experiences of dancers, and rock climbers to learn their experiences of challenge and exhilaration. Interviewed music challenge and exhilaration. Interviewed music composers to learn of their creative processes.composers to learn of their creative processes.

Did Did phenomenologicalphenomenological analysis. analysis.

Originally named it “Originally named it “autotelic experience”autotelic experience”

This became known as “flow”This became known as “flow”


Definition of FlowDefinition of Flow““A holistic sensation present when we act A holistic sensation present when we act

with total involvement. A state where action with total involvement. A state where action

follows upon action according to internal follows upon action according to internal

logic which seems to need no conscious logic which seems to need no conscious

intervention on our part. intervention on our part.


““Flow”..cont.Flow”..cont.

Experience it as a unified “flowing” from oneExperience it as a unified “flowing” from one

moment to the next, in which we feel in moment to the next, in which we feel in

control of our actions and in which there’s control of our actions and in which there’s

little distinction between self and little distinction between self and

environment; stimulus and response, past,environment; stimulus and response, past,

present, future.”present, future.”


In the USA and EuropeIn the USA and Europe About 20 % of people report these “flow-like” About 20 % of people report these “flow-like”

experiences often, sometimes several times a experiences often, sometimes several times a day.(Maslow would probably have called theseday.(Maslow would probably have called these

“ “peak experiences”).peak experiences”).

Only about 15% report they’ve NEVER had the Only about 15% report they’ve NEVER had the experience.experience.

Those who have had it, report immediately Those who have had it, report immediately appreciating the association between flow and appreciating the association between flow and psychological well being.psychological well being.


Contexts and Situations for Contexts and Situations for FlowFlow

““In the Zone” included people who were involved in In the Zone” included people who were involved in creative, artistic pursuits.creative, artistic pursuits.

May involve participation in religious or spiritual May involve participation in religious or spiritual rituals, teaching a class, driving in a car, being with rituals, teaching a class, driving in a car, being with one’s family (or not), solitary retreats. one’s family (or not), solitary retreats.

Reading for Pleasure: One of the most frequently Reading for Pleasure: One of the most frequently reported contexts for “flow”reported contexts for “flow”


Contexts for flow, cont.Contexts for flow, cont.

Speculation that flow experiences may be Speculation that flow experiences may be key in job satisfaction.key in job satisfaction.

In team activities, it’s possible for an entire In team activities, it’s possible for an entire team to experience flow during the game.team to experience flow during the game.

Micro-flow: moments when we are leisurelyMicro-flow: moments when we are leisurely

involved in a simple, almost automatic involved in a simple, almost automatic

activity.( checkbook vs. taxes)activity.( checkbook vs. taxes)


Characteristics of “Flow”Characteristics of “Flow”


1.1.Complete Concentration on the Complete Concentration on the

Task at HandTask at Hand

Appears effortless, and not associated withAppears effortless, and not associated with

mental strain.mental strain.


2.2.Lack of Worry about Losing Lack of Worry about Losing

Control, Paradoxically, Results in Control, Paradoxically, Results in the Sense of Controlthe Sense of Control

Loss of worry allows people to maintain Loss of worry allows people to maintain concentration and focus on the task.concentration and focus on the task.


3.3.A loss of Self-ConsciousnessA loss of Self-Consciousness

The EGO is quieted!The EGO is quieted!

One is not trapped in internal conflict One is not trapped in internal conflict between various options.between various options.


4.4.Time No Longer Seems to Pass in Time No Longer Seems to Pass in Ordinary Ways Ordinary Ways

(Possibly) some distortion in internal sense of time.(Possibly) some distortion in internal sense of time.

Time may seem to pass more quickly than usually Time may seem to pass more quickly than usually or may be vastly slowed down.or may be vastly slowed down.

Both lead to feelings of relaxation.Both lead to feelings of relaxation.


5.5.“Autotelic” Nature of the experience“Autotelic” Nature of the experience

The experience is done for its own sake rather The experience is done for its own sake rather than for another goal.than for another goal.

The autotelic personality does things for their own The autotelic personality does things for their own sake, with involvement and enthusiasm, rather sake, with involvement and enthusiasm, rather than in response to external threats or rewards. than in response to external threats or rewards. (not a survival strategy).(“Intrinsic Motivation”)(not a survival strategy).(“Intrinsic Motivation”)

Such people are autonomous and independent.Such people are autonomous and independent.


6.6.Flow Accompanies a Challenging Flow Accompanies a Challenging

Activity that Requires SkillActivity that Requires Skill

If demands are high and skills are low, If demands are high and skills are low, person may feel anxiety.person may feel anxiety.

If demands are low and skills are high, If demands are low and skills are high, person may feel bored.person may feel bored.


7.7.The Activity Has Clear Goals and The Activity Has Clear Goals and

Immediate Feedback.Immediate Feedback.

Self explanatory.Self explanatory.


control model of flowcontrol model of flowhighhigh

Cha

l

l

e

n

g

e

s

LowSkills

High

anxiety arousal

flowworry

apathy control

Boredom Relaxation

Judi Balcerzak


Other Qualities of FlowOther Qualities of Flow Altered perceptions of self and time and abilitiesAltered perceptions of self and time and abilities

Different from normal consciousnessDifferent from normal consciousness

Heightened well beingHeightened well being

May be innate, we may not need to learn it but May be innate, we may not need to learn it but may need to re-discovermay need to re-discover

Found in all cultures of the world. (Fiji/KAVA)Found in all cultures of the world. (Fiji/KAVA)


4 stages to move from4 stages to move from MICROFLOW TO MICROFLOW TO INTENSE FLOWINTENSE FLOW

1.1. Paying attentionPaying attention (focus attention on physiological (focus attention on physiological processes)processes)

2.2. Interested attention Interested attention (not needing to concentrate (not needing to concentrate are to focus attention and eliminate distraction)are to focus attention and eliminate distraction)

3.3. Absorbed attentionAbsorbed attention (person is so absorbed in the (person is so absorbed in the activity that distraction is almost impossible).activity that distraction is almost impossible).

4.4. MergingMerging (person is no longer aware of separation (person is no longer aware of separation between self and activity)between self and activity)


Activity:Activity:Select a partnerSelect a partner

Discuss your experiences with “Flow” in the past month.Discuss your experiences with “Flow” in the past month.

In the past year.In the past year.

In the past 5 years.In the past 5 years.

In your lifetime.In your lifetime.

What are the conditions that are most likely to produce What are the conditions that are most likely to produce “flow” for you?“flow” for you?


Flow and Subjective Well BeingFlow and Subjective Well BeingIs flow associated with subjective wellbeing?Is flow associated with subjective wellbeing?

YES!YES!

Because flow is a significant aspect of many Because flow is a significant aspect of many pleasurable leisure activities, it seems related to pleasurable leisure activities, it seems related to leisure and satisfaction.leisure and satisfaction.

Flow may be a significant aspect of intrinsically Flow may be a significant aspect of intrinsically motivate activities that allow us to return over & motivate activities that allow us to return over & over to experience flow.over to experience flow.


Flow and Subjective Well BeingFlow and Subjective Well Being

Lefevre (1988) found that the more time Lefevre (1988) found that the more time people spent in flow, the greater their people spent in flow, the greater their quality of experience during the day.quality of experience during the day.

High quality of experience included: High quality of experience included:

1.1. better concentration, better concentration,

2.2. creativity, and creativity, and

3.3. + emotions.+ emotions.


Wells (1988) found a relationship between Wells (1988) found a relationship between self-esteem and flow in working mothers self-esteem and flow in working mothers (flow was significantly correlated with self (flow was significantly correlated with self esteem based on perceived competency esteem based on perceived competency as a parent.as a parent.


Flow and Subjective Well BeingFlow and Subjective Well BeingIf interactions with children were If interactions with children were easy, easy,

comfortable, and tension freecomfortable, and tension free (flowed) then (flowed) then

the the felt better about themselvesfelt better about themselves..

BUT:BUT:

Overall sense of self esteem was not Overall sense of self esteem was not

dependent on flow.dependent on flow.

Mothers could feel good about themselves Mothers could feel good about themselves

with or without flow, with or without flow,


Why Does Flow Increase Why Does Flow Increase Psychological Well Being?Psychological Well Being?

Per Csikszentmihalyi: during flow, increased well being is Per Csikszentmihalyi: during flow, increased well being is due to the more efficient organization of consciousness. due to the more efficient organization of consciousness.

During flow, current available information in During flow, current available information in consciousness is congruent with goals and under this consciousness is congruent with goals and under this condition, psychic energy will flow effortlessly.condition, psychic energy will flow effortlessly.

After the experience, a further ordering of consciousness After the experience, a further ordering of consciousness occurs.occurs.

(could this explain how meditation improves (could this explain how meditation improves concentration, creativity, and wellbeing)?concentration, creativity, and wellbeing)?


How to Produce More Flow in Life:How to Produce More Flow in Life:

Flow may NOT be entirely controllable, but may Flow may NOT be entirely controllable, but may be increased with certain strategies.be increased with certain strategies.

Balance skill level with challenge of an activity Balance skill level with challenge of an activity and get immediate feedback.and get immediate feedback.

Intense flow experiences are induced when the Intense flow experiences are induced when the demands of the situation push person to limits of demands of the situation push person to limits of his/her skill level.his/her skill level.


Increase flow?Increase flow?

When demands of situation push person to the When demands of situation push person to the limits of his or her skill level.limits of his or her skill level.

1)1) Demands are so high that we must pay Demands are so high that we must pay attentionattention

2)2) The demands of the task force us to move The demands of the task force us to move beyond self consciousness between the task beyond self consciousness between the task and our self evaluationand our self evaluation


Are Challenges and Skills Are Challenges and Skills Necessary for Life?Necessary for Life?

Flow is fostered by intrinsic interest in and curiosity Flow is fostered by intrinsic interest in and curiosity about a task.about a task.

Can set up environment that is conducive to flow by Can set up environment that is conducive to flow by removing distractions, noises, interruptions, or by removing distractions, noises, interruptions, or by creating internal cues that have conditioned associations creating internal cues that have conditioned associations with the experience of flow.with the experience of flow.

E.g., musicians may have a favorite instrument that E.g., musicians may have a favorite instrument that increases likelihood of flow when they use it.increases likelihood of flow when they use it.


Comments on the Theory of FlowComments on the Theory of Flow

Csikszentmihalyi said that flow is produced by balancing Csikszentmihalyi said that flow is produced by balancing learned skills with the challenges of a situation that learned skills with the challenges of a situation that requires the skills.requires the skills.

Flow is NOT always present in a specific activity and if it is Flow is NOT always present in a specific activity and if it is present, it may not be present during the entire activity.present, it may not be present during the entire activity.

Example: Bill Moyers -- “Amazing Grace” seems to Example: Bill Moyers -- “Amazing Grace” seems to transcend barriers of race, religion, social class, and transcend barriers of race, religion, social class, and education.(Roots of AMAZING GRACE)?education.(Roots of AMAZING GRACE)?


Love and Well BeingLove and Well Being


The Psychology of LoveThe Psychology of Love


Evolution and LoveEvolution and Love

Love has properties that help us to adapt.Love has properties that help us to adapt.

The bonds of love (attachment) help us to The bonds of love (attachment) help us to protect those close to us, particularly our protect those close to us, particularly our children.children.


Marriage and Well BeingMarriage and Well Being

The quality of our social relationships is one The quality of our social relationships is one of the core factors in whether or not we of the core factors in whether or not we feel content, happy, satisfied. feel content, happy, satisfied.

Data suggest that married people are Data suggest that married people are happier and healthier than single people.happier and healthier than single people.



According to some theories, being married is the According to some theories, being married is the only truly significant predictor of life satisfaction.only truly significant predictor of life satisfaction.

One important variable is self disclosureOne important variable is self disclosure

Problems with interpersonal relationships, esp. Problems with interpersonal relationships, esp. intimacy, are among the most frequent triggers intimacy, are among the most frequent triggers for depression.for depression.


Marriage and Well BeingMarriage and Well Being Effects of marriage on wellbeing are stronger for Effects of marriage on wellbeing are stronger for

men.men.

Single men are less happy than single men, but Single men are less happy than single men, but married men are as happy or happier than married men are as happy or happier than married women!married women!

59% of men rated their love as “Perfect 10” 59% of men rated their love as “Perfect 10” (NBC Weekend Edition and Prevention (NBC Weekend Edition and Prevention Magazine).Magazine).



Burman and Margolin(1992) suggest that the Burman and Margolin(1992) suggest that the psychological and social aspects of marriage are psychological and social aspects of marriage are related to physical health and mortality rates.related to physical health and mortality rates.

Positive marital relationships are related to Positive marital relationships are related to longevity. Couples who interacted in (+) ways longevity. Couples who interacted in (+) ways have lower blood pressure and lower have lower blood pressure and lower psychological reactivity to (-) events.psychological reactivity to (-) events.



But the quality of marriage is more significant for But the quality of marriage is more significant for women. (Men benefit from simply being married, women. (Men benefit from simply being married, but women benefit if they have a good but women benefit if they have a good marriage).marriage).

Increase in men’s wellbeing is due to increases Increase in men’s wellbeing is due to increases in happiness after marriage, but women’s in happiness after marriage, but women’s increases in wellbeing are due to increases in increases in wellbeing are due to increases in life satisfaction.life satisfaction.


what does this suggest ?what does this suggest ?Men’s increase in well being after getting married Men’s increase in well being after getting married

is due more to positive emotions while women’s is due more to positive emotions while women’s increases may be attributable to higher cognitive increases may be attributable to higher cognitive judgments.judgments.

But, the strength of the positive relationship But, the strength of the positive relationship between marriage and wellbeing has declined between marriage and wellbeing has declined since 1970’s. Why? Married women seem to be since 1970’s. Why? Married women seem to be less happy than they once were while single less happy than they once were while single men seem to be getting happier!!!!men seem to be getting happier!!!!


Explanations?Explanations?

Younger couples have less satisfaction and more Younger couples have less satisfaction and more conflict compared to older couples.conflict compared to older couples.

Why? Rogers and Amato (1997) suggest Why? Rogers and Amato (1997) suggest increased tension surrounding work-family increased tension surrounding work-family conflicts that come from new gender roles.(?)conflicts that come from new gender roles.(?)

What do you think?What do you think?


The Varieties of LoveThe Varieties of Love


Two Factor Theory of LoveTwo Factor Theory of Love(from which other forms of love emerge)(from which other forms of love emerge)

PASSONATE LOVE: The intense longing for PASSONATE LOVE: The intense longing for the other person. Can include: despair of the other person. Can include: despair of rejection or joyful union.rejection or joyful union.

COMPANIONATE LOVE: A “quieter” form of COMPANIONATE LOVE: A “quieter” form of love associated with affection, love associated with affection, companionship, friendship, and long term companionship, friendship, and long term commmitment.commmitment.


Multifactor Theories of Multifactor Theories of LoveLove


Love StylesLove Styles Eros: passionate loveEros: passionate love

Ludus: game playingLudus: game playing

Storge: primarily affectionate and close but not always Storge: primarily affectionate and close but not always excitingexciting

Pragma: Practical and pragmatic. Love fulfills certain Pragma: Practical and pragmatic. Love fulfills certain conditions, rational, objectiveconditions, rational, objective

Mania: like eros, but may be extremely emotional and Mania: like eros, but may be extremely emotional and obsessiveobsessive

Agape: altruism, selfless loveAgape: altruism, selfless love


Susan and Clyde Hendricks (1992)Susan and Clyde Hendricks (1992)

Study of 57 dating couples examined the Study of 57 dating couples examined the association of love style, and the stability association of love style, and the stability and satisfaction of the relationship.and satisfaction of the relationship.


Research Findings, cont. Research Findings, cont. Couples showed similarity of love stylesCouples showed similarity of love styles

Higher satisfaction related to higher Higher satisfaction related to higher EROSEROS

Ludus Ludus was a negative predictor for men and a predictor of was a negative predictor for men and a predictor of satisfaction for womensatisfaction for women

Love styles expressed by women might be more important to her Love styles expressed by women might be more important to her partner’s satisfaction than to his style is to her satisfactionpartner’s satisfaction than to his style is to her satisfaction

When women are more passionate (eros) and altruistic (agape) than When women are more passionate (eros) and altruistic (agape) than their male partners, they were more satisfied.their male partners, they were more satisfied.


Sternberg’s Triangle of LoveSternberg’s Triangle of Love

3 Emotional Components: Passion, intimacy 3 Emotional Components: Passion, intimacy and commitment.and commitment.

1.1. Passion: the intense emotional response Passion: the intense emotional response (like Eros)(like Eros)

2.2. Intimacy: sharing warmth and closenessIntimacy: sharing warmth and closeness

3.3. Commitment: the decision to maintain Commitment: the decision to maintain the relationshipthe relationship


Sternberg, cont.Sternberg, cont.

Most relationships start with infatuation Most relationships start with infatuation and end up as companionate love.and end up as companionate love.

Also, Sternberg’s theory may reflect Also, Sternberg’s theory may reflect subtle subtle ageism ageism because studies of older persons because studies of older persons indicate that sexual interest and activity indicate that sexual interest and activity can remain strong until the 70’s and 80’s.can remain strong until the 70’s and 80’s.


Finding Romance, Finding Romance, Intimacy, and LoveIntimacy, and Love


Most important variables:Most important variables:

Proximity—spend time near each otherProximity—spend time near each other

Physical Attractiveness—but not as important as Physical Attractiveness—but not as important as “personality”“personality”

Attitude Similarity—pairing like with likeAttitude Similarity—pairing like with like

Mutual exchange of positive evaluations or Mutual exchange of positive evaluations or reciprocity—allows one to feel good about self.reciprocity—allows one to feel good about self.


Relationship Relationship Satisfaction:Satisfaction:

What makes relationships good?What makes relationships good?


What makes relationships good?What makes relationships good?

Intrapersonal qualitiesIntrapersonal qualities

Interpersonal qualitiesInterpersonal qualities

Environmental influencesEnvironmental influences


Personality Attributions, Personality Attributions, and Illusionsand Illusions


Personality TraitsPersonality Traits

Healthy personality—confidence, integrity, Healthy personality—confidence, integrity,

warmth, kindness, intelligence, warmth, kindness, intelligence,

dependability, emotional stability, good dependability, emotional stability, good

sense of humor, loyalty, affectionate sense of humor, loyalty, affectionate

(Laner, et al. 1990).(Laner, et al. 1990).


Interestingly..Interestingly..

Physical attractiveness is not a major Physical attractiveness is not a major predictor of relationship satisfactionpredictor of relationship satisfaction

At opposite end, NEUROTOCISM is a At opposite end, NEUROTOCISM is a predictor of poor relationship quality. predictor of poor relationship quality. (neuroticism leads to chronic focus on the (neuroticism leads to chronic focus on the self, leaving little time for attention to one’s self, leaving little time for attention to one’s partner)partner)


5 Factor Model: (BIG 5)5 Factor Model: (BIG 5) ConscientiousnessConscientiousness AgreeablenessAgreeableness NeuroticismNeuroticism Openness to experienceOpenness to experience ExtroversionExtroversion Happier couples=more agreeable, more Happier couples=more agreeable, more

conscientious, more open, and more conscientious, more open, and more emotionally stable. Extroversion=NOT emotionally stable. Extroversion=NOT related to relationship satisfactionrelated to relationship satisfaction


Attributions: the meanings we give Attributions: the meanings we give to people, things, eventsto people, things, events

Fundamental Attribution Error: the tendency Fundamental Attribution Error: the tendency

to attribute the causes of other’s behavior to to attribute the causes of other’s behavior to

enduring personality traits while at the same enduring personality traits while at the same

time, attributing our own behavior to time, attributing our own behavior to

temporary, situational factors.temporary, situational factors.


AttributionsAttributions

Couples who are more optimistic usually Couples who are more optimistic usually

have a better chance of making marriage have a better chance of making marriage

work!work!


Positive Romantic Illusions—Is love Positive Romantic Illusions—Is love really blind?really blind?

The tendency for couple to view each other The tendency for couple to view each other in a somewhat more positive light than in a somewhat more positive light than others can produce “mutual reinforcement”others can produce “mutual reinforcement”

Happy couples seem implicitly negotiate Happy couples seem implicitly negotiate areas of self evaluation so that neither areas of self evaluation so that neither partner’s self esteem is threatened.partner’s self esteem is threatened.


This is called This is called motivated inaccuracymotivated inaccuracy..

The use of positive illusions may actually be The use of positive illusions may actually be related to greater self esteem!related to greater self esteem!

Resilient Illusions: illusions that occur in the Resilient Illusions: illusions that occur in the context of healthy self esteem and realistic context of healthy self esteem and realistic optimism.optimism.


Interpersonal FactorsInterpersonal Factors


In many studies:In many studies:

Communication is the primary determination Communication is the primary determination of marital satisfaction.of marital satisfaction.

Most couples want more time and better Most couples want more time and better talks, not more sex!talks, not more sex!


John GottmanJohn Gottman

Simple index to distinguish happy from Simple index to distinguish happy from unhappy couples:unhappy couples:

Couples that are more satisfied will turn Couples that are more satisfied will turn toward each other more often. (both toward each other more often. (both physically and symbolically)physically and symbolically)

These indicate “bids for attention”.These indicate “bids for attention”.


Relationship Stability:Relationship Stability:

What makes relationships last?What makes relationships last?


What do Happy Couples What do Happy Couples Say About Their Say About Their Relationships?Relationships?


Robert and Jeanette Lauer (1990)Robert and Jeanette Lauer (1990)((Studied over 300 couples who had been together Studied over 300 couples who had been together

15 + years. 7 qualities emerged:15 + years. 7 qualities emerged:1.1. My spouse is my best friendMy spouse is my best friend

2.2. I like my spouse as a personI like my spouse as a person

3.3. I believe that marriage is a long term I believe that marriage is a long term commitmentcommitment

4.4. We agree on aims and goalsWe agree on aims and goals

5.5. My spouse has grown more interesting over My spouse has grown more interesting over the yearsthe years

6.6. I want the relationship to succeedI want the relationship to succeed

7.7. Marriage is a sacred institutionMarriage is a sacred institution


Theories of Relationship Theories of Relationship StabilityStability

Balance TheoryBalance Theory

Social Exchange TheorySocial Exchange Theory

What Does Research Say about What Does Research Say about Stability?Stability?


Balance TheoryBalance Theory

It’s not the presence of negative behaviors, but It’s not the presence of negative behaviors, but how they are regulated.how they are regulated.

Regulated couples who seem to be stable and free Regulated couples who seem to be stable and free from undue conflict are called “validating from undue conflict are called “validating couples” where as couples” where as

Couples who tend to be unstable and short term Couples who tend to be unstable and short term are called “unregulated” couples. (+&- behaviors are called “unregulated” couples. (+&- behaviors are not predictable)are not predictable)


Social Exchange TheorySocial Exchange TheoryRelationships are an exchange of rewards and Relationships are an exchange of rewards and

costs.costs.

Social interdependency theory:Social interdependency theory:People make separate decisions about whether People make separate decisions about whether they’re satisfied in a relationship and whether they’re satisfied in a relationship and whether they should stay.they should stay.

People who have high commitment will devalue People who have high commitment will devalue alternative partners as a way to keep satisfaction alternative partners as a way to keep satisfaction high.high.

Commitment: satisfaction, available alternatives, Commitment: satisfaction, available alternatives, and investmentand investment


What does research say?What does research say?(Gottman, (1998)(Gottman, (1998)

Friendship is essential.Friendship is essential.

Happy couples communicate affection, fondness, Happy couples communicate affection, fondness, admiration, and interest in each other’s lives.admiration, and interest in each other’s lives.

““Turn toward” each other.Turn toward” each other.

Longer courtships.Longer courtships.

Marry older (older and long term=“acceptance”)Marry older (older and long term=“acceptance”)


Skolnick:Skolnick:

Followed couples x 27 years:Followed couples x 27 years:Couples who were older and had higher Couples who were older and had higher incomes, higher education, higher religious incomes, higher education, higher religious participation=more stable marriages.participation=more stable marriages.

Skolnick:Skolnick:Each marriage is really 2 (husband’s & Each marriage is really 2 (husband’s &

wife’s)wife’s)


What Hurts What Hurts Relationships?Relationships?


ConflictConflict


Response to Conflict:Response to Conflict: Demand-withdraw pattern: one partner Demand-withdraw pattern: one partner

criticizes/complains, the other feels contempt criticizes/complains, the other feels contempt and then withdrawsand then withdraws

Stonewalling: when the withdrawal becomes Stonewalling: when the withdrawal becomes destructivedestructive

Flooding: one person becomes “shell shocked” Flooding: one person becomes “shell shocked” and seeks protection (fight/flight)and seeks protection (fight/flight)

Repair attempt: try to calm down tension so that Repair attempt: try to calm down tension so that flooding does not occur. When attempts fail, flooding does not occur. When attempts fail, couple is in trouble!couple is in trouble!


The Impact of The Impact of Social and Cultural Factors Social and Cultural Factors

on Relationshipson Relationships


Social and Cultural FactorsSocial and Cultural Factors

Differences in backgrounds, ethnicity, Differences in backgrounds, ethnicity,

culture, religion, etc. can create stress.culture, religion, etc. can create stress.

There can also be cultural differences in theThere can also be cultural differences in the

““rules” for relationship. (monogamy vs. rules” for relationship. (monogamy vs.

polygamy, child rearing, extended family,polygamy, child rearing, extended family,

etc.)etc.)


Comments of Love and Comments of Love and WellbeingWellbeing


The need for some type of companionship and The need for some type of companionship and the capacity for caring are biological.the capacity for caring are biological.

Social environment is important in how one Social environment is important in how one perceives love.perceives love.

Physical isolation and “rootless-ness” are only Physical isolation and “rootless-ness” are only half the reason love is so important.half the reason love is so important.

Our society conditions us to rate ourselves Our society conditions us to rate ourselves based on the amount of love we receive.based on the amount of love we receive.


PETSPETS

Pets can be a source of relationshipPets can be a source of relationship


Religion?Religion?

Monastic practices suggest that love need Monastic practices suggest that love need not be “corporeal”. A love for God of not be “corporeal”. A love for God of something of ultimate concern can be something of ultimate concern can be fulfilling.fulfilling.


WELLNESS, HEALTH, WELLNESS, HEALTH, AND POSITIVE AND POSITIVE

COPINGCOPING


WELLNESSWELLNESS


World Health OrganizationWorld Health Organization

““Health is a state of complete physical, Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and mental, and social wellbeing, and NOTNOT merely the absence of disease and merely the absence of disease and infirmity.”infirmity.”


Halbert L. Dunn, (1961) coined the Halbert L. Dunn, (1961) coined the phrase “high level wellness” phrase “high level wellness”

Zest for LifeZest for Life A way of living to maximize potentialA way of living to maximize potential A sense of meaning and purposeA sense of meaning and purpose A sense of social responsibilityA sense of social responsibility Skills for adapting to the challenges of a Skills for adapting to the challenges of a

changing environmentchanging environment


Health PsychologyHealth Psychology

Since 1970’s APA created a new Since 1970’s APA created a new specialty in psychologyspecialty in psychology


Health Psychology focuses on all the Health Psychology focuses on all the behavioral behavioral factorsfactors that can affect a person’s health. that can affect a person’s health.

Health Psychology includes usingHealth Psychology includes using

psychological knowledge to help prevent risk psychological knowledge to help prevent risk

factors for disease, increase compliance withfactors for disease, increase compliance with

health directives, and create public policy health directives, and create public policy

investigation into how our health care system can investigation into how our health care system can

work better.work better.

Health Psychology is Health Psychology is compatible compatible with PP!with PP!


Psycho-Neuro-Immunology (PNI)Psycho-Neuro-Immunology (PNI)

As late as 1985 the connection between As late as 1985 the connection between disease and mental state was considered disease and mental state was considered to be to be FOLKLORE.FOLKLORE.

First studies to provide a direct causal First studies to provide a direct causal relationship between health status and relationship between health status and psychological state was published in 1991.psychological state was published in 1991.


Psycho-Neuro-Immunology (PNI)Psycho-Neuro-Immunology (PNI)

Cohen, Tyrrell, and Smith (1991, 1993) suggested Cohen, Tyrrell, and Smith (1991, 1993) suggested a direct relationship between stress and the a direct relationship between stress and the common cold.common cold.

Later, Cohen, Doyle, Skoner, Rabin, and Gwaltney Later, Cohen, Doyle, Skoner, Rabin, and Gwaltney (1997) used a more rigorous test of the stress-cold(1997) used a more rigorous test of the stress-coldconnection hypothesis and found the greater the connection hypothesis and found the greater the extent of a person’s social ties, the less likely extent of a person’s social ties, the less likely they’d develop a cold. (lower social support 4x they’d develop a cold. (lower social support 4x more likely to get sick).more likely to get sick).


Psychological Factors Important to Psychological Factors Important to HealthHealth

People have greater control over some areas of People have greater control over some areas of their physiological processes than was ever their physiological processes than was ever believed possible.believed possible.

Some data suggest that some people, under Some data suggest that some people, under certain conditions, can be taught to increase or certain conditions, can be taught to increase or decrease the number of cells in their own bodies decrease the number of cells in their own bodies associated with immune functioning.(T-Cells or S-associated with immune functioning.(T-Cells or S-IgA antibodies). Only 30 years ago, science would IgA antibodies). Only 30 years ago, science would NOT have believed this to be possible!NOT have believed this to be possible!


Social SupportSocial Support

Associated with positive health outcomes Associated with positive health outcomes such as greater resistance to disease, faster such as greater resistance to disease, faster recovery from heart disease and surgery, recovery from heart disease and surgery, and lower mortality.and lower mortality.

Support from family and friends has beenSupport from family and friends has beenassociated with less arterial blockage in associated with less arterial blockage in Type A personalities.Type A personalities.


Social SupportSocial Support The immune system—studies of medical The immune system—studies of medical

students. Effect of stress was greater in those students. Effect of stress was greater in those students reporting “loneliness”students reporting “loneliness”

(e.g., Ross medical school, St. Kitts).(e.g., Ross medical school, St. Kitts).

Pets-can lower blood pressure, reduce the rates Pets-can lower blood pressure, reduce the rates of angina, and increase longevity.of angina, and increase longevity.

Compassion and Health-just watching someone Compassion and Health-just watching someone be kind and sympathetic to others may even be kind and sympathetic to others may even change our immune system!change our immune system!


Effects of watching Triumph of the Will and Effects of watching Triumph of the Will and

Mother Teresa on Immunogobulin A.Mother Teresa on Immunogobulin A.

(McClellen, 1985)(McClellen, 1985)


Film on Mother Theresa

Film on Nazi Germany

Assessment Day Immediately after viewing time

MEAN CONCENTRATION OF SIgA


Humor and HealthHumor and Health

Even Hippocrates, father of Greek medicine, Even Hippocrates, father of Greek medicine, prescribed laughter to his patients.prescribed laughter to his patients.

Norman Cousins helped himself cure a Norman Cousins helped himself cure a degenerative and possibly fatal illness.degenerative and possibly fatal illness.

He refused to accept the diagnosis, took unusuallyHe refused to accept the diagnosis, took unusuallyhigh doses of Vitamin C and watched old “Candid high doses of Vitamin C and watched old “Candid Camera” shows and Marx Brother movies!Camera” shows and Marx Brother movies!

(Other example, sister in law)(Other example, sister in law)


Humor and HealthHumor and Health

Studies have suggested that laughter can increaseStudies have suggested that laughter can increase levels of S-Ig A antibodies that fight off infections.levels of S-Ig A antibodies that fight off infections.

Humor also related to personality characteristics.Humor also related to personality characteristics.Thorson, Powell, Sarmany-Schuller &Holmes Thorson, Powell, Sarmany-Schuller &Holmes (1997) found that people who scored high on (1997) found that people who scored high on humor tend to score high on optimism, humor tend to score high on optimism, extroversion, and capacity for intimacy. Also, they extroversion, and capacity for intimacy. Also, they scored low on neuroticism.scored low on neuroticism.


Music and HealthMusic and Health

Pennebaker,(1997),studied the process of coping Pennebaker,(1997),studied the process of coping with trauma and found that non-verbal expressionwith trauma and found that non-verbal expressionof emotions through art and music can be helpful.of emotions through art and music can be helpful.(choir rehearsal after cat euthansia)(choir rehearsal after cat euthansia)

Cardiologists Peng, Goldberger, and Stanley Cardiologists Peng, Goldberger, and Stanley (1993) recorded human heartbeats and discovered(1993) recorded human heartbeats and discoveredit’s possible to graph the intervals between beats it’s possible to graph the intervals between beats and convert them to musical notes. and convert them to musical notes.

And the same researcher found that heartbeats sound And the same researcher found that heartbeats sound musically pleasing! (and J.S. Bach)musically pleasing! (and J.S. Bach)


Emotional Expression and HealthEmotional Expression and Health

Studies of survivors of Holocaust, San Studies of survivors of Holocaust, San Francisco earthquake, and the Gulf Wars.Francisco earthquake, and the Gulf Wars.

Pennebaker concluded that confiding in Pennebaker concluded that confiding in someone about one’s experiences can be someone about one’s experiences can be therapeutic, and even non-verbal therapeutic, and even non-verbal expressions, like music and art, can be expressions, like music and art, can be helpful.helpful.


Does having a good cry help?Does having a good cry help?““Unshed tears make other organs weep” but the research Unshed tears make other organs weep” but the research

does NOT support the view that crying is a good stress does NOT support the view that crying is a good stress reliever.reliever.

Why not? Possibly because there are a number of crying Why not? Possibly because there are a number of crying styles and a number of reasons people cry.styles and a number of reasons people cry.

But it can be used as a coping mechanism to help deal with But it can be used as a coping mechanism to help deal with negative emotions. (but it can be used to manipulate negative emotions. (but it can be used to manipulate others, or to express joy [like at a wedding] ).others, or to express joy [like at a wedding] ).

Crying is a parasympathetic nervous system response (rest Crying is a parasympathetic nervous system response (rest and digest, after fight/flight).and digest, after fight/flight).


Comments of Wellness Comments of Wellness and Health Psychologyand Health Psychology


SummarySummary

Research is early and youngResearch is early and young But we do know that emotions are important to But we do know that emotions are important to

our health.our health. The results from studies replaces the old notion The results from studies replaces the old notion

that the mind and body are separate.that the mind and body are separate. The new approach is a more interactive model of The new approach is a more interactive model of

a dynamic system, with both physical and a dynamic system, with both physical and psychological factors affecting our health.psychological factors affecting our health.


Inventories and PracticeInventories and Practice

20 things I love to do.20 things I love to do.List 20 things you love to do.List 20 things you love to do.Indicate when you last did the activity.Indicate when you last did the activity.Indicate if you did it alone or with others. (A or O)Indicate if you did it alone or with others. (A or O)Indicate if it takes planning to do it (P)Indicate if it takes planning to do it (P)Indicate if you need equipment to do it. (E)Indicate if you need equipment to do it. (E)Does it meet an emotional, physical, intellectual, or Does it meet an emotional, physical, intellectual, or

spiritual need?spiritual need?Indicate which activities can be done for less than Indicate which activities can be done for less than

$5.00 ($)$5.00 ($)


Donald CliftonDonald Clifton

50 year career at University of 50 year career at University of Nebraska, Selection Research, Nebraska, Selection Research, Inc., and “Gallup” Inc., and “Gallup”


Asked:Asked:

““What would happen if we studied what is What would happen if we studied what is right right with people”?with people”?

Believed that talents could be Believed that talents could be “operationally defined”, studied, and “operationally defined”, studied, and accentuated in both academic and work accentuated in both academic and work settings. (Hodges & Clifton, 2004, cited settings. (Hodges & Clifton, 2004, cited in Snyder, et al, 2011).in Snyder, et al, 2011).


Clifton consideredClifton considered

““Traits” as the raw materials to be the Traits” as the raw materials to be the products of healthy development.products of healthy development.

Viewed strengths as extensions of talent, Viewed strengths as extensions of talent, andand

Viewed the combination of talent & Viewed the combination of talent & knowledge & skill as the ability to provide knowledge & skill as the ability to provide excellent performance at a particular skill.excellent performance at a particular skill.


Clifton Strength Finder ThemesClifton Strength Finder Themes

AchieverAchiever CompetitionCompetition FocusFocus

ActivatorActivator ConnectednessConnectedness FuturisticFuturistic

AdaptabilityAdaptability ConsistencyConsistency HarmonyHarmony

AnalyticalAnalytical ContextContext IdeationIdeation

ArrangerArranger DeliberativenessDeliberativeness IncluderIncluder

BeliefBelief DeveloperDeveloper IndividualizationIndividualization

CommandCommand DisciplineDiscipline InputInput

CommunicationCommunication EmpathyEmpathy IntellectualizationIntellectualization


Clifton Strength Finder Themes, Clifton Strength Finder Themes, cont.cont.

LearnerLearner RestorativeRestorative

MaximizerMaximizer Self-AssuranceSelf-Assurance

PositivityPositivity SignificanceSignificance

RelatorRelator StrategicStrategic

ResponsibilityResponsibility WOO (winning others WOO (winning others over)over)


ReferencesReferences

Averill,J.R. (2002). “Emotional Creativity. Toward Spiritualizing the Passions.” Cited in Snyder & Lopez, Averill,J.R. (2002). “Emotional Creativity. Toward Spiritualizing the Passions.” Cited in Snyder & Lopez, Handbook of Positive Psychology. New York. Oxford Press.Handbook of Positive Psychology. New York. Oxford Press.

Cantor and Sanderson.(1999).”Life Task Participation and well being. The importance of taking part in daily life”. Cantor and Sanderson.(1999).”Life Task Participation and well being. The importance of taking part in daily life”. In Kahneman, et al. In Kahneman, et al. Wellbeing. The Foundation of Hedonic Psychology. Wellbeing. The Foundation of Hedonic Psychology.

Clifton (2011) Hodges & Clifton, 2004, cited in Snyder, et al, 2011).Clifton (2011) Hodges & Clifton, 2004, cited in Snyder, et al, 2011).

Cloninger, R. (2006). The science of well-being: an integrated approach to mental health and its disorders. Cloninger, R. (2006). The science of well-being: an integrated approach to mental health and its disorders. World World Psychiatry.Psychiatry. June 2006: 5(2) 71-76; The World Psychiatric Association. June 2006: 5(2) 71-76; The World Psychiatric Association.

Compton, William C. (2005). Compton, William C. (2005). An Introduction to Positive PsychologyAn Introduction to Positive Psychology. Wadsworth-Cengage Learning. Belmont, CA. Wadsworth-Cengage Learning. Belmont, CA

Gardner, John (1993) cited in Compton. (2005)Gardner, John (1993) cited in Compton. (2005)

Salovey,P. & Mayer, J.D. (1990). “Emotional Intelligence”. Salovey,P. & Mayer, J.D. (1990). “Emotional Intelligence”. Imagination, Cognition, and Personality.Imagination, Cognition, and Personality.9, 185-211.9, 185-211.

Seligman, M.E.P. (2002). Positive Psychology, Positive Prevention, and Positive Therapy.Seligman, M.E.P. (2002). Positive Psychology, Positive Prevention, and Positive Therapy.

Seligman, ME) & Czikszentmihalyi, M. (2000). Positive psychology. Seligman, ME) & Czikszentmihalyi, M. (2000). Positive psychology. The American Psychologist, The American Psychologist, Vol.55, No.1, 5-24. Vol.55, No.1, 5-24. January, 2000.January, 2000. APAAPA

Snyder, C. R. & Lopez, S. J. (2002). Snyder, C. R. & Lopez, S. J. (2002). The Handbook of Positive Psychology.The Handbook of Positive Psychology.Oxford University Press. New York.Oxford University Press. New York.

balcerzak positive psychology iugs summer 2012

Education

positive connections

positive psychology2000

study of positive emotions

field of positive psychology

experience positive

express positive emotions

scope of positive psychology

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