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Coursera

Positive Psychology

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill via Coursera

Overview

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This course discusses research findings in the field of positive psychology, conducted by Barbara Fredrickson and her colleagues. It also features practical applications of this science that you can put to use immediately to help you live a full and meaningful life.

Syllabus

  • Positive Emotions: The Tiny Engines of Positive Psychology
    • Look “under the hood” to discover the powerful drivers of growth, well-being, and health.
  • The Mindscapes and Outcomes of Positivity
    • Discover the roots of flexibility, creativity, and resilience.
  • The Delicate Art of Pursuing Happiness
    • Discover the ratios and priorities that best promote flourishing and learn common pitfalls to avoid.
  • Positivity Resonance and Loving-Kindness
    • Unveil the force of co-experienced positive emotions and practice this lab-tested meditation honed over millennia.
  • The Fruits of Positivity Resonance
    • Learn to spot the health benefits that loving-kindness uniquely nourishes.
  • The Ripples of Positivity Resonance
    • Far beyond you and your happiness, positive psychology radiates out to benefit your relationships and community.

Taught by

Barbara Fredrickson

Reviews

3.9 rating, based on 27 Class Central reviews

4.7 rating at Coursera based on 5813 ratings

Start your review of Positive Psychology

  • Saranya
    no commit because i am the beginner of this courses but i am thinking that course is good .i am believing that i will learn morn information from this courses
  • I started this course without prior knowledge about Positive Psychology. It first seemed somewhat interesting and potentially useful with describing the workings of emotions, but from week 2 it started going in the direction of "forcing" positive emotions on one instead of just witnessing whatever we feel. I started feeling more and more put off from the course (and as I saw in the Discussion forums I wasn't the only one). I couldn't even finish week 2, I always felt so queasy when I engaged with the materials and the fellow students wholeheartedly parroting the dogma of positive thinking. I feel as a whole the course does more bad than good, especially for people without excellent self-awareness of their true feelings.
  • Positive Psychology is a very impressive course that opts for a different format to other MOOCs by utilising a round-table discussion in which the lead educator, Dr. Barbara L. Fredrickson, conducts various different discussions and experiments with her guests that the student is invited to participate in as well.

    I especially liked the concept of a Gratitude Journal in which you record the big and small incidents of life that you feel especially grateful and happy towards, which you can then use to pull yourself out of a slump when life is not so positive.
  • Denise
    I found the course to offer a very realistic view of positive psychology. It was interesting to watch the videos each week and to get different perspectives. I just finished getting my Master's in general psychology but have a passion for positive psychology. I liked the positivity ratio and how we can open our eyes and heart to see micro moments of positivity. Positive psychology is not about being happy all the time but learning to build resilience to grow stronger through life's challenges. When you build resilience you can appreciate the small joys in life that surround you.
  • This intriguing course is articulate in describing the potential of positive psychology to enhance life, rather than merely restore it or alleviate suffering. Perhaps, taking this course requires one to temporarily lower her/his guard (especially pr…
  • Anonymous
    There wasn't much intellectual substance to this course. It was pretty disappointing. The quizzes are very easy. The Science of Happiness on EdX is MUCH better.
  • Anonymous
    This course had very little substance to it. The presentation was awkward and tedious. It is not an university level course - the entire content can be covered in a two-hour seminar.
  • Interresting, but i don't if a mooc in the best form for this course. The videos are full of good advices and it is even a guided meditation.
  • Anonymous
    I liked the course. Perhaps it was a little repetitive at times or a little obvious but the substance is important. Simple ideas are not always easy to put into practise. The course offers a way to do just that and helps heighten awareness about the kinds of emotions we experience daily. Above all, what I took away from the course is that you have a choice when it comes feelings. So why not choose positive over negative? I'd recommend the course
  • Anonymous
    This course is the first I have taken that identifies major positive emotions. It is a course that continues to help improve my social life. You get the most from this course by applying what you learn. "Positive Psychology is not a spectator sport." My belief system was very much strengthened by this course which was an unexpected bonus. I recommend this course for anyone who wants a more healthy life,---both physical and mental health.
  • Anonymous
    I loved this course and got so much out of it. It opens the mind and teaches practical skills to enhance the practice of positive psychology. I am now aware of benefits to be gained both physical and mental. Inspired by this course I intend to further my knowledge and grow in this area.
  • Anonymous
    The key to learn in this course is without judgment and your previous thinking (often misunderstanding) about Positive Psychology. I think you have to be open hearted to enjoy this course. Otherwise you'll feel forced or even confused.
  • Anonymous
    One of the best and most worthwhile courses I have done. Thank you to Barbara Fredrickson and the UNCCH for making it available. I have recommended it to other people who have all said they found it excellent, too.
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