Positive psychology spirituality and well-being: An overview

Abstract

Positive psychology is a recent branch of psychology that is commonly defined as 'the scientific study of optimal functioning' (Seligman, 2002) and the 'scientific study of ordinary human strengths and virtue' (Sheldon & King, 2001). The definitions highlight the scientific underpinnings of the field and the positive, non-clinical focus of positive psychology. Spirituality has been studied in positive psychology and defined as “a deep sense of belonging, of wholeness, of connectedness, and of openness to the infinite” (Kelly, 1995). Spirituality is associated with mental health, managing substance abuse, marital functioning, parenting, coping and finding purpose and meaning in life. The article discusses the concepts of positive psychology highlighting their influence on well-being.