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Martin Seligman and Positive Psychology

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Martin E.P. Seligman's pioneering work in positive psychology has shifted the focus from mental illness to the factors that contribute to human flourishing. His framework, based on positive emotions, individual traits, and institutions, aims to enhance happiness, resilience, and well-being. Seligman's concepts of learned helplessness and optimism have significantly influenced the understanding of human behavior and mental health. His books, including 'Authentic Happiness' and 'Learned Optimism,' have been instrumental in spreading the principles of positive psychology.

Martin Seligman and the Emergence of Positive Psychology

Martin E.P. Seligman, a preeminent American psychologist, is often hailed as the "father of positive psychology," a field he helped to found and popularize. Born on August 12, 1942, Seligman's work diverged from traditional psychology's preoccupation with mental illness and instead focused on what makes life most worth living. Positive psychology emphasizes the study of positive human functioning and promotes the enhancement of happiness, resilience, and well-being through the understanding and application of psychological theory and research.
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The Foundational Pillars of Positive Psychology

Seligman's positive psychology framework is built upon three core pillars: positive emotions, positive individual traits, and positive institutions. Positive emotions encompass the pursuit of joy, gratitude, and satisfaction in the present, as well as hope and optimism for the future. Positive individual traits involve the identification and cultivation of virtues and strengths such as courage, perseverance, and wisdom. Positive institutions, the third pillar, refers to the creation and reinforcement of societal structures that support the development and maintenance of positive traits and emotions within individuals and communities.

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Birthdate of Martin E.P. Seligman

Born on August 12, 1942.

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Seligman's divergence from traditional psychology

Focused on life's positive aspects rather than mental illness.

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Key concepts of positive psychology

Studies positive human functioning; aims to enhance happiness, resilience, well-being.

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