Positive Psychology (Original PDF from Publisher)

Positive Psychology (Original PDF from Publisher)

By Michael Worrell

This book is intended to function as a core textbook for undergraduate courses in positive psychology. In line with its “nuts and bolts” approach, the authors provide detailed discussions of specific empirical studies, research methodologies, and ongoing theoretical debates throughout the text.

One primary objective of the book is to make positive psychology accessible to undergraduate students by clearly reviewing and synthesizing the major empirical findings and theoretical frameworks across its key domains. In doing so, the authors aim to reduce the gap between undergraduate-level understanding and professional academic literature. A second objective is to present the central themes of positive psychology in a manner that retains the depth, novelty, and enthusiasm characteristic of this emerging field. Positive psychology explores fundamental questions related to how individuals live their lives, experience happiness and life satisfaction, and cope with challenges. Because of this inherent relevance, the subject matter is intrinsically engaging, and the authors seek to sustain student interest by consistently linking research findings to everyday life experiences.

A third goal is to introduce positive psychology without oversimplifying the complexity of its research and theoretical foundations. The field is therefore presented as it currently exists—an evolving and developing area of scientific inquiry. From this perspective, the book offers a practical, “nuts and bolts” examination of positive psychology, with a strong emphasis on empirical evidence and the theoretical models used to interpret and explain research results.