Name

Capella University

PSYC FPX 4110 Positive Psychology

Prof. Name

Date

Introduction

School serves as a pivotal experience for all individuals, with the typical structure in the United States comprising a principal overseeing classrooms, teachers facilitating education, administrators enforcing regulations, coaches offering guidance, and students interacting with peers and educators. Each locality has its designated school district, organized by grade levels: elementary (Kindergarten through 5th grade), middle school (5th through 8th grade), and high school (9th through 12th grade). Following high school, students often have the option to pursue higher education. The school environment significantly influences students’ psychological and emotional development, underscoring the importance of fostering a positive, supportive, and enriching atmosphere.

Application of Positive Psychology

Positive Psychology, pioneered by Martin Seligman and Mikhaly Csikszentmihalyi in 1998, concentrates on enhancing human life satisfaction and fulfillment by nurturing strengths and virtues rather than solely addressing mental health concerns. Seligman’s PERMA model delineates crucial components for happiness and well-being: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Achievement. Cultivating a positive school environment is paramount for students to flourish, fostering positive emotions, active engagement, meaningful connections, and a sense of accomplishment.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Positive Psychology

Positive psychology programs in schools empower students to comprehend and enhance their character strengths, thereby contributing to heightened well-being. Nonetheless, challenges persist, as some students may encounter adverse outcomes, such as aggression, depression, or anxiety, when pressured to identify and cultivate their character strengths. Furthermore, individual strengths may be subject to varying interpretations by others, potentially leading to misinterpretations.