engleski

Teaching positive psychology in secondary schools

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of Positive Psychology curriculum developed for high school students on overall happiness and depression symptoms. The modified Seligman's program Teaching Positive Psychology to 9th Graders was realised through introductory lessons, activities and homework. 15 sessions were held during the school year. The program aims to increase positive emotion through lessons and activities on happiness, creativity, flow, life goals, kindness and generosity, confronting pessimism etc. 115 students, aged from 15 to 17, from five high schools participated in the program. The control group consisted of 122 students. At the end of the program, two questionnaires were administered - The Authentic Happiness Inventory (Peterson, 2005) and Depression Scale CES-D (Radloff, 1977). Factor analysis showed that The Authentic Happiness Inventory consisted of three factors: 1) self-esteem, 2) flow, and 3) general satisfaction and positive emotions. The two groups of students did not differ significantly in depression, self-esteem and flow. However, the group which participated in the program had significantly higher results on general satisfaction and positive emotions factor.

teaching positive psychology; depression; general satisfaction; positive emotions

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