Positive psychology

Clinical Psychology has traditionally focused on psychological deficits and disability. It has
rarely privileged clients’ resilience and resourcefulness. The critical psychology tradition in
the UK has highlighted the shortcomings of this approach (Johnstone, 2000; Newnes,
Holmes, & Dunn, 1999, 2001). The new positive psychology movement aims to develop a
knowledge base focusing on human strengths to complement deficit based approaches
(Snyder & Lopez, 2002). This message of positive psychology is an optimistic one. The
results of scientific research point to three reliable ways to find happiness (Carr, 2004).
1. Cultivate relationships which involve deep attachment and commitment.
2. Involve yourself in absorbing work and leisure activities in which you exercise your
strengths, talents and interests. 3. Cultivate an optimistic, future-oriented perspective on life in which you expect the best
and value the future more than the present.