A Primer in Positive Psychology

by Christopher Peterson

Positive psychology is the scientific study of what goes right in life, from birth to death and at all stops in between. It is a newly-christened approach within psychology that takes seriously the examination of that which makes life most worth living. Everyone's life has peaks and valleys, and positive psychology does not deny the valleys. Its signature premise is more nuanced, but nonetheless what is good about life is as genuine as what is bad and, therefore, deserves equal attention from psychologists. Positive psychology as an explicit perspective has existed only since 1998, but enough relevant theory and research now exist to fill a textbook suitable for a semester-long college course.

A Primer in Positive Psychology is thoroughly grounded in scientific research and covers major topics of concern to the positive experiences such as pleasure and flow; positive traits such as character strengths, values, and talents; and the social institutions that enable these subjects as well as what recent research might contribute to this knowledge. Every chapter contains exercises that illustrate positive psychology, a glossary, suggestions of articles and books for further reading, and lists of films, websites, and popular songs that embody chapter themes.

A comprehensive overview of positive psychology by one of the acknowledged leaders in the field, this textbook provides students with a thorough introduction to an important area of psychology.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Self Help, School, Personal Development

386 pages, Paperback

First published June 28, 2006

About the author

Christopher Peterson is visiting assistant professor of literature at Claremont McKenna College.

Reviews

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to positive psychology, accessible to laypeople as well as being an undergrad text. The focus is on practical application of research, with plenty of exercises for trying out positive psychology principles in your own everyday life.
This is still an academically rigorous book, though, from one of the leading researchers in positive psychology.

[Aryel Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a phenomenal book, a must-read piece with invaluable information on how one can have a more fulfilling life. This book is partially responsible for my drive to become certified in the positive psychology field! I love it!

[Melsene G · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're interested in positive psychology, this is an excellent resource. I'm a big fan of this movement and word needs to get out about it. This is the study of what goes right in life and how to live the good life. There is history about how positive psychology began. Thank you pioneer Martin Seligman (1998). He's authored numerous books on the topic that I recommend you read.

This primer takes you from the beginning, provides history, and at the end of each chapter is an exercise to do along with more resources including books, articles, movies, and songs. Positive psychology is not a spectator sport, you must take action. Flow and positive thinking are important. There's a chapter on character strengths. There are 24 strengths under 6 core virtues (moral excellence of goodness). Values are those goals we deem worthy. They are not attitudes, traits, norms or needs. There's a chapter on interests, abilities, and accomplishments. Do you get to do what your do best every day? It's best to improve your strengths, not your weaknesses!

There's a chapter on wellness. Social relationships are important, don't smoke or abuse alcohol, get regular exercise, get education and keep learning, be in a stable marriage. There are chapters on institutions, schools, jobs, and society. Each have good tips and info for living the good life.

This is a brief summary of the primer. Do read it and take notes. There are 50 pages of resources at the end which is awesome if you're looking for more reading. I liked the fact the this primer was not politically biased, which is hard to come by.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book does not read like a text book. The author can talk about statistical studies and other intellectual stuff and in the next beat is cracking seriously funny jokes. Reading it doesn't feel like homework so anyone interested in learning about this sub field of psychology, this book is for you.

[Elizabeth Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This text provides a thorough overview of this branch of psychology and its teachings, from one of the founding members. This book highlights the salient points and studies, and presents the information in an organized, easily digestible but in-depth, format.

[Catherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good, but still a text book

[Daria Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to the field of positive psychology. Peterson wrote with warmth and humour, making the various topics he covered interesting and accessible for beginners. Although nearly 15 years has passed since this was written, it is still highly relevant, particularly chapter 12 with its questions that positive psychology needs to address.

[Alberto Lagomarsini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente presentación sobre la Psicología positiva desde varios enfoques incluyendo el filosófico. Creo que explica detalladamente pero sin caer en excesos los postulados de la psicología positiva sin quedarse únicamente en el lado científico.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for a class...

[Brittany-Marie Aarons · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the text that decided my major and commitment to my life's work.

[Nhi Nguyen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cuốn sách này có ý nghĩa thật sự to lớn với mình.

[Wesley Malvini · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bullshit

[Kate Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

The amount of times I have cited Peterson in and outside the classroom is beyond me. This is a great foundational text.

[fc7reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was required reading in a class I took. There was another required book for the course. Of the two, this is definitely the book with the "textbook" feel. For those inclined toward an interest in psychology, there is definitely good information in the book. Having said that, I didn't much enjoy reading this book and am glad that I only rented it.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a shame Peterson passed away in 2014. This is a really good first edition of a text on positive psychology, and it would have benefited from updating and revision in 2016. The first half of the book is really solid, and the second half, though more sketched out, sets the stage for more research. I hope someone takes up the mantle and produces the next draft of this essential text.

[Sorcha O'Dowd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant book for any students studying Positive Psychology. It is easy to read and not at all like some stuffy textbooks around. This is fresh, relatable to young people and didn't at all feel like a chore to read.

[Carla Bayha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Continuing my survey of positive psychology, I wanted an overview of the field so far. It's hard to imagine that there could be a better one.I hope that one of Peterson's colleagues updates it in next few years.

[Marie-josée Shaar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well-written and thorough, this books is a pleasure to read. It gives a nice overview of how the basic principles in positive psychology came about, and how to use them in our own lives.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful professor, may he rest in peace.

[Verito · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book, interesting approaching to the Positive Psychology. A lot of useful information in order to understand the basics of this part of the psychology and why it was born.