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This doctoral course examines the emerging science of happiness, psychological resilience, and human flourishing. Students explore how positive psychology—the study of strengths, well-being, and optimal functioning—complements traditional mental health approaches by focusing on the factors that contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Key concepts of happiness, life satisfaction, meaning, and virtue are analyzed through interdisciplinary perspectives, including psychology, neuroscience, and sociology. Students review research on the factors that contribute to well-being, such as positive emotions, relationships, health, mindset, and purpose, and examine evidence-based interventions designed to foster resilience and flourishing in individuals and communities.
Emphasis is placed on critical evaluation of current research and cultural and ethical considerations in promoting well-being, including spiritual and cross-cultural perspectives. Students are encouraged to translate this knowledge into personally meaningful insights and apply evidence-informed approaches to their professional goals and areas of practice.
Explain and critically evaluate core theories, models, and constructs related to happiness, resilience, and human flourishing within psychological and contemplative science.
Analyze and interpret empirical research on well-being, emotion, meaning, mindset, flow, and social context, including study design, methodological strengths, limitations, and theoretical implications.
Critically examine how social, cultural, ethical, and historical contexts shape definitions, measurements, and interpretations of happiness, resilience, and flourishing.
Synthesize research findings, theoretical perspectives, and contextual factors to make sense of complex case material, narratives, and bodies of literature related to well-being and resilience.
Integrate scholarly literature, intergenerational perspectives, and personal reflection to articulate evolving understandings of happiness and flourishing, including implications for one’s life, values, and future professional inquiry.
Required Course Pack:
Required Textbooks:
View the required textbooks for this class, including ISBN, edition, and retail price, by visiting our Required Textbooks page.
Total Course Price:
View the total course price including tuition, fees, course materials, and shipping online here.
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