Department of Counselling and Psychology Course Outline
Course Title Positive Psychology
Course Code PSY209
Number of Credits 3
Duration of Weeks 15
Contact Hours Per Week 2 hours Lecture; 1 hour Tutorial
Pre-requisite Course(s) N/A
Course Aims
Traditionally, the foundation for Clinical and Counselling Psychology has been based on the psychopathological perspective. Positive Psychology is the most recent movement in psychology led by Martin Seligman and represents a more positive way of viewing the human mind, personality, emotions and behaviour.  This course will provide an introduction to the study of topics (e.g. subjective well-being, strengths and virtues, positive emotions, positive relationships, flow, mindfulness, meaning in life, grit, and …) related to the positive aspects of human flourishing.  The course will first provide an overview of the history, definition, and significance of positive psychology.  Then, the course will be dedicated to unpack the complex concepts of happiness and flourishing, and examining the mechanisms/factors that cause and maintain these two key components of positive psychology. Topics will be connected to their implications for increasing well-being throughout the course.  The relevance and importance of applying positive psychology (especially in Chinese cultures) will also be discussed over the course.
Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOS)

After completing the course, students should be able to:

1. distinguish between Positive Psychology and traditional psychology and be able to
discuss these differences;
 
2differentiate between Eastern and Western perspectives of human wellness and explore which aspects of Chinese philosophy/psychology and cultural values contribute to positive psychology;
 
3. develop a comprehension of the research that supports the principles, skills and
strategies of positive psychology, and critically assess the claims of positive psychology
to promote wellbeing;
 
4acquire insights into their own strengths and values that may lead to a  positive lifestyle; identify which changes they want to make, and be able to demonstrate through their self-reflective writings that they are moving towards living in a positive psychological state with increased stable happiness;
 
5utilize skills and strategies learnt to maintain optimal wellbeing andpositive life.    
Assessment
 
Assessment Tasks
Weighting
1.
Experiential Essay
15%
2.
Psychological Well-being Project
35%
3.
Video Presentation/Talent Show (in pair)
20% 
4.
Final Exam
30%
 
 
100%
For Reference Only
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