An Approach to Motivation and Empowerment: The Application of Positive Psychology

Abstract

Research suggests that positive emotions can prevent burnout as well as lead to greater motivation and work satisfaction. In the past decades, there has been increasing interest to apply positive psychology constructs like strengths and hope in school settings to empower teachers and students. Motivation in teachers and students are related and interactive. By observing motivational thought patterns include attitudes, attributions, and goal attainments of teachers, students develop their motivation to learn. Based on the literature review as well as our own research and practical experience, this chapter will first explore the theoretical supports from perspectives of positive psychology on character strength, hope as a cognitive motivational system, interpersonal relationships and notice of positive events as the four pillars in teachers’ motivation and empowerment. These altogether formulate the SHINE intervention approach. It will then discuss specific intervention examples in SHINE in school settings. By internalizing the positive psychology knowledge and skills at a personal level, teachers can promote the building of positive psychological resources at an institutional level and hence be able to generate sustainable benefits among themselves and students.