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Positive psychiatry/psychology for older adults: a new and important movement but robust methodology is essential

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 March 2019

Charlotte R. Stoner Open the ORCID record for Charlotte R. Stoner [Opens in a new window]
Charlotte R. Stoner*
Affiliation:
Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London (UCL), London, UK Email: c.stoner@ucl.ac.uk
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Extract

Positive psychiatry and the related positive psychology are offering a much needed alternative framework through which to view the psychology of old age (Jeste et al., 2015). Traditional models of old age tend to approach the subject from a negative view point where themes of dependency and decline can be common (Cumming and Henry, 1961). In contrast, positive psychiatry and psychology refer to the scientific study of strengths and capabilities that contribute to well-being (Seligman, 1998). Some of these can be thought of as character strengths and evidence suggests that concepts such as hope, humour, integrity, and gratitude are universal, with examples documented in at least 54 nations across the world (Park et al., 2006). Researchers aligned to these theoretical models seek to explore complex approaches to measuring and improving mental health, recognizing that well-being is often a dynamic interplay between positive and negative psychological processes and outcomes (Lomas and Ivtzan, 2016).

Type
Commentary
Information
International Psychogeriatrics , Volume 31 , Issue 2: Issue Theme: Positive Psychiatry II , February 2019 , pp. 163 - 165
Copyright
Copyright © International Psychogeriatric Association 2019 

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