When we think of psychology, we tend to think disorders, deficits and distress. Abnormal psychology automatically comes to mind.

But, of course, there are several types of psychology.

One of them, positive psychology, takes a different approach. It focuses on how humans flourish.

Specifically, positive psychology “is the scientific study of the strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive,” according to the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania, home to positive psychology’s founder, Martin E.P. Seligman.

It studies three principle areas, according to Seligman: positive emotions (such as happiness and hope), positive individual traits (such as strength, resilience and creativity) and positive institutions (such as better communities, leadership and parenting).

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