Empirical Research Articles from Positive Psychology Journal

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Here are the abstracts. I have attempted to provide you with a brief explanation on each one to follow in devising your paper. I would begin my paper with a definition of Positive psychology, some background history (e.g. its emergence in the field of psychology, and end with a summary of how it is applied in contemporary society. Hope this helps. Good luck with your paper!

(1) Norman K (2013). Understanding and supporting the flourishing of the exceptional ability: A positive psychology. Educational & Child Psychology, 30 (2), 29-43.

This articles states that before the present century, the goal of psychologists was to bring individuals back from a negative struggling state to a balanced normal state. Thus, the role of the educational psychologists (EP) is predominately problem-focused to improve any strategies in achievement and to remove barriers such as hearing deficiencies, and social and emotion and behavioral difficulties (p. 30). Exceptional ability can be operationalized as an evolving understanding of the brain and its relationship understanding of the brain and its relationship to learning. The belief is held that expectations that increased knowledge of the genetics and neurobiology of human ability might provide a more concise account of how outstanding abilities develop (31).

Abstract: This article aims to consider what contributions might be made by educational psychology research and practice towards understanding and supporting children and young people who demonstrate knowledge and skills in the upper echelons of the ability range. An argument is made that, within a positive psychology and interactive factors approach, there is much to be gleaned and shared about how to provide appropriate support for increased numbers young people to reach levels of impressive or exceptional performance. With the persuasive justification that 'a rising tide raises all ships', an optimistic, proactive and ecological approach to future educational psychology practice is advocated in order to mobilize the resources, qualities and structures which can optimize educational achievement for all (including the most able).

(2) Boiler, L, Haverman, M., Westerhof, G.J., Riper, H, Smit, F., & Bohlmeijer, E. (2012). Positive psychology interventions: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies.

This study focused on the effectiveness of positive psychology interventions for the general public regarding specific psychological problems. For instance, based on the article, the existing environments shows that the mental health care system has traditionally focused on mental from the medicinal point view rather than on prevention. Working within the framework of the World Health Organization (WHO), "Mental health is a state of well-being in ...