Positive Psychology

Overview

Positive Psychology is a relatively new branch of the discipline, taking a counterpoint approach to many of the traditional models of disordered function from which Psychology has learned so much. It celebrates the potential of humans, offers discussion on what can be achieved (“what great looks like”), and perspective on how to move towards healthier, happier, more enjoyable lives.

This two-day online event examines the origins of Positive Psychology, the effect of Optimism on wellbeing, how a positive outlook can change the way you view the world, and how this in turn can be used to increase resilience.

This is designed as a first step investigation into real techniques that have been proven to make a substantial difference to people’s lives. Open to everyone, we will explore the Positive Psychology literature and the potential benefits of this approach.

You will also have the opportunity to work through some practical scenarios to tease out how our explanatory style can interact with decision-making, self-esteem, persistence and life goals.

Ideally, pre-reading of the recommended text is advised, but this material will be covered in the course.

Please note: due to the nature of the contents of this event, this is not suitable for people under 18 years old.

Please note: this event will close to enrolments at 23:59 GMT (UTC) on 3 February 2025.

Programme details

All times GMT (UTC)

Thursday 6 February

10am
Origins of Positive Psychology

11.15am
Break

11.45am
Optimism and Wellbeing

1pm
End of day

Friday 7 February

10am
Workshop session/case study

11.15am
Break

11.45am
Positivity, Flow and Resilience

1pm
End of day

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £120.00

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit or are a full-time student in the UK you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees.

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Dr Jane Pollock

Independent Consultant and Researcher

Jane is a Chartered Psychologist, an Independent Consultant in Organisational Psychology, and a tutor and lecturer in Psychology and Statistics. She has a history of highly successful courses in both Psychology and Business streams, and takes a practical approach to a subject crucial to the success of people in organisations.

Application

Please use the 'Book' button on this page. Alternatively, please contact us to obtain an application form.

IT requirements

The University of Oxford uses Microsoft Teams for our learning environment, where students and tutors will discuss and interact in real time. Joining instructions will be sent out prior to the start date. We recommend that you join the session at least 10-15 minutes prior to the start time – just as you might arrive a bit early at our lecture theatre for an in-person event.

If you have not used the Microsoft Teams app before, once you click the joining link you will be invited to download it (this is free). Once you have downloaded the app, please test before the start of your course. If you are using a laptop or desktop computer, you will also be offered the option of connecting using a web browser. If you connect via a web browser, Chrome is recommended.

Please note that this course will not be recorded.