Positive Psycholog Press

Question 1

Character Strengths and Virtues (CSV)

Answer 1

A classification similar to the DSM but focused on what’s right with people.

Question 2

CSV

Answer 2

• Wisdom (e.g., creativity, curiosity)
• Courage (e.g., bravery, persistence)
• Humanity (e.g., kindness, love)
• Justice (e.g., fairness, teamwork)
• Temperance (e.g., forgiveness, self-regulation)
• Transcendence (e.g., gratitude, hope)

Question 3

Can Positive Psychology Increase Happiness?

Answer 3

Researchers tested 5 happiness interventions and 1 placebo in a randomized, placebo-controlled, Internet-based study with 577 adults.

Key tools:
* Steen Happiness Index (SHI) – developed to track increases in happiness (engagement, meaning, pleasure).
* CES-D – used to measure depressive symptoms.

Question 4

The 6 Interventions Tested

Answer 4

• Gratitude Visit: Write/deliver a thank-you letter. → Big effects for 1 month.
• Three Good Things: Write 3 positive things daily and their causes. → Lasting boost for 6 months.
• You at Your Best: Reflect on a peak moment and identify your strengths. → Short-term effect only.
• Using Signature Strengths in a New Way: Take a survey, then use a top strength in a novel way daily. → Lasting boost for 6 months.
• Identifying Signature Strengths: Take the survey and use your strengths more often. → Short-term effect only.
• Placebo Control (Early Memories): Journal about childhood memories. → No long-term benefit.

Question 5

The two most effective long-term exercises were:

Answer 5

• Three Good Things
• Using Signature Strengths in a New Way