Detailed Information
AE-PN108 - Psychology of Happiness
Happiness is an elusive state that most people want but few know how to achieve. Since the 1990s positive psychology has researched happiness and discovered the secrets to a happy life. The findings have attracted enormous attention because almost everyone would like to be happier. There is a strong relationship between happiness and the meaning we give to our life experiences. A positive perspective on life is important to maintaining life satisfaction and giving meaning to your life experiences. Although not everyone is born with a sunny disposition, scientists do agree that we can all learn how to bring more meaning and happiness into our lives. More than simply being in a positive mood, happiness is a state of well-being that encompasses living a good life—that is, living a life with a sense of meaning and deep satisfaction. This course will enhance your understanding of the power of social connections and the science of empathy. Research shows that happiness is not the result of bouncing from one joy to the next. Achieving happiness typically involves times of considerable discomfort. Money is important to happiness but only to a certain point. Money buys freedom from worry about the basics in life such as housing, food and clothing. This course will offer you practical, research-backed tips on living a happy and meaningful life. Discover what happiness is and why it matters to you. Using a mixture of theory and experiential learning this course will uncover the key factors that contribute to your happiness and well-being.
10 Tuesdays 10.00am-12.00pm
Sept 26, Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Nov 7, 14, 21, 28
- Carr, A. (2004). Positive Psychology. The Science of Happiness and Human Strength. England: Brunner-Routledge.
- Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2002). Flow: The Classic Work on How to Achieve Happiness. Rider & Co.
- Diener, E. and Biswas-Diener, R. (2008). Happiness Unlocking the Mysteries of Psychological Wealth. Blackwell Publishing.
- Lyubomirsky, S. (2007). The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want. Penguin Press.
- Seligman, M. E. P. (2002). Authentic Happiness. New York: The Free Press.
- Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: a new understanding of happiness and well-being – and how to achieve them. Nicholas Brealey Publishing.
Nicky O’Leary (PhD) is a private practioner in the areas of educational psychology, counselling psychology and psychotherapy. She has wide experience of working with parents, educators and young people especially in the area of giftedness and the achievement of happiness and well-being. Nicky regularly presents at both national and international conferences. Her interests include the influence of positive psychology on therapeutic change and the achievement of potential.
- 26th September: 1. Positive Psychology & Happiness
- 3rd October: 2. Flourishing
- 10th October: 3. Hope & Optimism
- 17th October: 4. Life Mission & Goals
- 24th October: 5. Strengths & Happiness
- 31st October: 6. Gratitude & Happiness
- 7th November: 7. Friendships & Happiness
- 14th November: 8. Emotions & Happiness
- 21st November: 9. Loving Kindness & Self Compassion
- 28th November: 10.Happiness in Everyday Life & Course Evaluation