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Basic Concepts of Positive Psychology

In: Philosophy and Psychology

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Basic Concepts of Positive Psychology
Krista Hart
June 11, 2014
Tricia Henderson

Subjective well –being is defined as a person’s cognitive and affective evaluations of his or her life. The cognitive element refers to what one thinks about his or her life satisfaction in global terms (life as a whole) and in domain terms. The affective element refers to emotions, moods and feelings. Affect is considered positive when the emotions, moods and feelings experienced are pleasant. Affect is deemed negative, though, when the emotions, moods and feelings experienced are unpleasant.

When psychologist measures SWB, they are measuring how people think and feel about their lives. The three components of SWB, life satisfaction, positive affect and negative affect, are independent factors that should be measured and studied separately. Thus, the presence of positive affect does not mean the absence of negative affect and vice versa. Before evaluating the correlates and predictors of SWB, it is worth noting the instruments used in measuring the components of SWB. Life satisfaction can be measured using a questionnaire such as the 5 items satisfaction with life questionnaire. Affectivity can be measured by for example, the PANAS.

I would never consider to be hooked up to a machine in order to be cheerful and happy. I want to use my own will to make myself feel happy and complete not a machine. Hedonic happiness is the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain and eudemonic happiness is based on the premise that people feel happy if they experience life purpose, challenges and growth.

References
Positive Psychology, Ch.

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