5 Common Misconceptions About the Field of Positive Psychology

Some individuals grapple with the concept of positive psychology. Questions often arise, such as, "What if I can't be happy all the time? Should I still pursue positive psychology practices if I'm feeling down?" According to Dr. Scott Glassman, director of the Masters in Applied Positive Psychology program at PCOM, this sentiment perfectly encapsulates the heart of one of the biggest misconceptions: the idea that positive psychology demands constant cheerfulness or the suppression of unpleasant emotions. However, this is far from the truth.

Positive psychology, in fact, encourages us to embrace our full range of emotions, recognizing that feelings like sadness, frustration, and anger have their own value and purpose. These emotions can provide us with new insights and highlight areas in our lives that may need our attention and care. Moving beyond these misconceptions, positive psychology is not about enforced happiness or unflagging optimism. It is not about ignoring the complexity of human emotions, nor is it about selfishness. Instead, it's a scientifically-backed field that champions resilience, meaningful relationships, empathy, and personal growth.

To set the record straight, here are five myths, demystified:

1. Positive psychology doesn't dismiss negative emotions; it incorporates them as essential players in our emotional palette.

2. It's not a quest for perpetual happiness, but a toolkit for resilience and finding meaning amidst life's inevitable challenges.

3. It doesn't equate positive psychology with positive thinking; it's much broader, encompassing strengths, virtues, relationships, and more.

4. Contrary to some beliefs, it is grounded in rigorous research and science.

5. It's not just about the individual; it underscores the significance of community, altruism, and our interconnectivity.

By embracing these truths, we can understand that happiness is not the singular goal - it's a byproduct of living a life filled with meaning, joy, and connection. Remember: positive psychology is about understanding and harnessing the multitude of factors that contribute to a well-lived life. It's about recognizing that happiness, much like ourselves, is multifaceted. If you are interested in learning more about the powerful and nuanced practice of positive psychology, please visit pcom.edu/mapp.