Major theoretical perspectives center around defining dysfunction that occurs leading to mental illness and then seeking to “fix” the dysfunction, referred to as a disease model. Positive psychology takes an alternative approach, which looks at treating mental illness by focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses. Instead of fixing what is wrong, positive psychology focuses on tapping into and utilizing human strengths like courage, optimism, happiness, hope, and resilience to promote change. Martin Seligman, a leader in the positive psychology field, notes, “The aim of positive psychology is to catalyze a change in psychology from a preoccupation only with repairing the worst things in life to also building the best qualities in life." Read: Woolston, C. (2020, December 31). Positive psychology: A new approach to mental health. Health Day. https://consumer.healthday.com/encyclopedia/holistic-medicine-25/holistic-medicine-news-383/positive-psychology-a-new-approach-to-mental-health-648414.html Identify at least one advantage and one disadvantage of approaching mental illness from a disease model. Identify at least one advantage and disadvantage of approaching mental illness from a positive psychology mindset. Discuss which approach your own viewpoints most align with in terms of approaching mental illness. Provide your reasoning. What are some positive psychology techniques that you could use to create a life that promotes psychological happiness and healthiness?
