Happiness & Human Flourishing

Catalog description

What can scientific research tell us about practices and perspectives that lead to a happier life? What can psychology do to help ordinary people to thrive and flourish? Which practices lead to greater fulfillment and life satisfaction? Positive psychology engages such questions by utilizing scientific research methods to identify practices which lead to greater happiness and human flourishing -- a life rich in purpose, relationships, and enjoyment. Positive psychologists maintain that (1) flourishing requires more than curing pathology; (2) flourishing requires tapping human strengths and positive capacities; and (3) scientific research methods can help us to identify and refine strategies for flourishing. This course will provide a theoretical and practical introduction to applied positive psychology. Topics will include positive emotions, hedonic misprediction and adaptation, character strengths (and their application in academia), purpose, gratitude, kindness, meditation, nurturing social relationships, and more. Students will learn about the foundational theories and research of positive psychology and will also engage in experiential homework in which they will apply strategies for enhancing their own health and happiness and for positively impacting their relationships and communities. This course will also expose students to local wellness resources at Tulane and New Orleans and will offer opportunities to explore a variety of life enhancing practices through homework assignments and a few group activities such as attending a yoga class (exercise), a meditation class (mindfulness), and a field trip to the French Quarter exploring New Orleans architecture and history on a walking tour (engagement) and enjoying some local cuisine (savoring).