Complete notes for the Positive Approach for WJEC Psychology Unit 1. Using a combination of the WJEC textbook, online notes, and notes from my teacher. I achieved an A (highest possible grade) in this exam. Other AS notes available. Currently studying A2 so these notes will be uploaded once I finis...
The assumption ‘Acknowledgement of Free Will’ says that we are in charge of
our emotions and have the free will to change them. The good life can be
experienced through recognising and developing signature strengths to minimise
negativity. In Diener and Seligman’s 2002 study they investigated what makes
people happy. They found that students with the strongest ties to family and
friends were happier. This is linked to free will because we can choose to engage
in activities that make us happy.
The assumption ‘Authenticity of Goodness and Excellence’ says that feelings of
happiness are just as authentic as stress so psychologists should study them
equally. Seligman says that we have signature strengths (e.g. humour) that we
need to nurture. There should be a focus on celebrating the good things in life.
Instead of focusing on what’s wrong, a positive therapist should be encouraging
a client to achieve fulfilment and focus on signature strengths.
The assumption ‘Focus on the Good Life’ says that the pleasant life is where
happiness comes from pursuing positive emotions in relation to past, present,
and future. The good life is where happiness comes from pursuing activities that
positively absorb and engage us. The good life is a combination of positive
connection to others, positive individual traits, and life regulation quantities. The
meaningful life is when happiness comes from a deep fulfilment of living for a
purpose much greater than oneself, for example becoming a nun or priest.
Relationship Formation
‘Authenticity of Goodness and Excellence’ can offer a positive explanation for
relationship formation. Entering into and maintaining a relationship allows
individuals to express and develop signature strengths to strive towards a
happier life. We are socially programmed to find and build relationships, which
encourages these qualities. ‘The Good Life’ can also explain relationship
formation. A positive connection to others encompasses ability to love, trust, and
enjoy happiness. The Pew Research Centre (2005) found that married
respondents claimed to be happier than unmarried respondents. Friendship
encourages use of signature strengths and can prevent feelings of anxiety and
depression during difficult times.
Quality of Life Therapy
It can help the individual experience greater life satisfaction through the
promotion of authenticity, by increasing happiness and optimism. Positive
emotions are just as important as negative ones, so clients are encouraged to
develop natural strengths. Natural positive emotions can provide resilience and
coping strategies during difficult times. We have free will to change thoughts,
feelings, and behaviour, so can regain feelings of self-control.
The Quality of Life inventory assess 16 areas of life deemed by Frisch to have
most influence. The client and therapist identify areas that are personal
important and focus on these. The CASIO model is a model of life satisfaction and
is made up of circumstances in that area, attitude to that area, evaluation of
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