Gable & Haidt (2005) observe that “In the field of close relationships, have examined how couples respond to each other’s misfortune (eg. Social support) or bad relationships behaviour (eg. criticisms and infidelities) but little is known about how couples respond to each other’s triumphs ( eg. Savouring positive events) or good relationship behaviour (compliments and displays of affection); there are very few studies examining couples having fun and laughter together. In the area of morality, there are thousands of published studies on the negative moral emotions (anger, contempt and disgust); there are few empirical studies of the positive moral emotions; the emotions we feel when others do good things (gratitude, admiration, and moral elevation). The authors note that beliefs such as optimism and a sense of personal control are protective factors for psychological and physical health.

 If you want to change your life, change your attitude first. Positive thoughts can only

demonstrate a positive approach to life; this is what makes life worthwhile as Robert Kennedy reminded us.

Ref: S.L.Gable and J.Haidt (2005) “What (and Why) is Positive Psychology?” Review of General Psychology, Vol.9.N0.2, pp103-110.

Further reading:

Positive Psychology In Practice. P. Alex Linley & Stephen Joseph (ed.) Hoboken, NJ. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2004: ISBN # 0471459062.

Positive Psychology Assessment: A Handbook of Models and Measures. Shane L. Lopez & C.R. Snyder (ed.) Washington DC. American Psychological Association. 2004: ISBN # 1557989885.

 The Resilience Factor. Karen Reivich, Ph.D. & Andrew Shatte, Ph.D. New York, Random House. 2002: ISBN # 0767911903.

Authentic Happiness. Martin E. Seligman, Ph.D. New York. Simon & Schuster. 2002: ISBN # 0743222989.