Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences · Psychology · Undergraduate
Course Objective
This course aims to introduce the perspective of positive psychology, which focuses not only on pathology but also on human strengths, well-being, happiness, and meaning. Students will explore factors that promote individual and collective flourishing, experience these principles in their own lives, and learn how to apply them professionally.
Course Content
The course covers the main concepts, theories, and applications of positive psychology. Topics include well-being, happiness, character strengths, optimism, hope, gratitude, flow, resilience, and meaning in life. Students will also discuss positive psychology interventions, cultural sensitivity, and critiques of the field.
Required Resources
Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. Free Press.
Peterson, C., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification. Oxford University Press.
Snyder, C. R., Lopez, S. J., & Pedrotti, J. T. (2014). Positive Psychology: The Scientific and Practical Explorations of Human Strengths. Sage Publications.
Recommended Resources
Lyubomirsky, S. (2007). The How of Happiness. Penguin Books.
Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. Harper & Row.
Türkiye Psikologlar Derneği (TPD). Pozitif Psikoloji Müdahaleleri El Kitabı.
Explanations
This course helps students enhance their own well-being while integrating the principles of positive psychology into professional practice. Concepts such as happiness, meaning, hope, gratitude, and strengths are explored for both personal and professional development.
Rules
Attendance is mandatory (minimum 70%).
Course Learning Outcomes
- Explain the key concepts and historical development of positive psychology.
- Evaluate the psychological foundations of well-being, happiness, hope, and resilience.
- Apply positive psychology interventions (e.g., gratitude, strengths use).
- Use positive psychology techniques to enhance their own well-being.
- Analyze positive psychology practices ethically and sensitively across cultures.
Core Area Distribution
Teaching Methods
Assessment & Evaluation
ECTS / Workload
| Activity | Quantity | Duration (h) | Total Workload |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Duration (Including Exam Week) | 16 | 3 | 48 |
| Out of Class Study Period | 16 | 3 | 48 |
| Midterm | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Quiz | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Assignment | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Practice | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Final | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Course Schedule
| Week | Subject | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Positive Psychology | Required Readings |
| 2 | Theories of Well-being | Required Readings |
| 3 | The PERMA Model | Required Readings |
| 4 | Character Strengths and Virtues | Required Readings |
| 5 | Happiness and Joy | Required Readings |
| 6 | Gratitude and Forgiveness | Required Readings |
| 7 | Optimism and Hope | Required Readings |
| 8 | Exam | All Sources |
| 9 | Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth | Required Readings |
| 10 | Flow and Engagement | Required Readings |
| 11 | Meaning and Purpose in Life | Required Readings |
| 12 | Positive Relationships and Social Bonds | Required Readings |
| 13 | Positive Psychology Interventions | Required Readings |
| 14 | Ethical and Cultural Considerations | Required Readings |
| 15 | Review | Required Readings |
| 16 | Exam | All Sources |