Apply assumptions to explain a variety of behaviours

Understanding the Application of Assumptions

Positive psychology emphasises the focus on human strengths and virtues that can enable individuals to thrive.
It maintains that an individual’s behaviour is largely influenced by their pursuit of happiness and well-being. This assumption can explain behaviours such as people’s choice of activities, hobbies, careers etc., which are often directed towards what makes them feel good and fulfilled.
The drive towards personal growth and self-actualisation is another key assumption of the Positive approach. This may explain why individuals engage in personal development activities and seek experiences that provide a sense of progression and achievement.

Key Features of Applying Assumptions

Positive psychology holds an optimistic view of human nature which can explain pro-social behaviours such as volunteering, altruism, and kindness. This is because these behaviours align with the virtues and strengths emphasised in the Positive approach, such as empathy, compassion, and love.
The pursuit of meaning and purpose, key components of the Positive approach, can help understand why individuals commit to certain life paths or causes, despite hardships or weaker prospects of material success.
Emotion-focused behaviours, such as seeking out positive experiences or practising gratitude can be understood through the assumption that cultivating positive emotions is critical to well-being.

Implications of Applying Assumptions

The assumptions of positive psychology can offer a new lens to understand maladaptive behaviours. For instance, stress, anxiety or depression could be viewed not just as medical conditions, but as indications of blocked personal growth or deficits in positive characteristics.
These assumptions, when applied, highlight the personalised nature of well-being. Behaviours that are rewarding or fulfilling differ significantly between individuals, reflecting varied conceptions of what constitutes a ‘good life’.

Strengths and Criticisms of Applying Assumptions

One strength of applying the assumptions of positive psychology is that it offers a more balanced perspective on human nature, by emphasising growth and improvement rather than focusing exclusively on correcting dysfunction.
Critics argue that this application may neglect individuals who struggle to engage with positive experiences or find it difficult to identify with societal measures of success or happiness.
It may also be criticised for its potential over-reliance on individual self-determination and under-estimation of external influences, such as socio-economic conditions, on behaviour.

Application of Assumptions in Research and Applied Contexts

These assumptions form the backbone to various Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs) where individuals are encouraged to tap into their strengths, focus on positive emotions, cultivate a sense of meaning, and strive towards self-actualisation.
Seligman’s PERMA model, grounded heavily in these assumptions, is widely used in educational and organisational settings to foster well-being and productivity.

In conclusion, applying assumptions of Positive Psychology provide a unique framework to understand a wide array of behaviours, maintaining focus on aspects like personal strengths, positive emotions, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life.