Hope and Optimism as Light in Darkness
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Date
2012
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Abstract
Positive psychology is an umbrella term for the study of positive emotions, positive character
traits and enabling institutions. Research findings from positive psychology are intended to supplement,
not remotely to replace, what is known about human suffering, weakness and disorder. The intent is
to have a more complete and balanced scientific understanding of the human experience “ the peaks,
the valleys and everything in between. A complete practice of psychology should include an
understanding of suffering and happiness, as well as their interaction and validated interventions that
both relieve suffering and increase happiness “ two separable endeavours’. Positive psychology has in
fact three research traditions that have thrown con-siderable light on how and why people take a
positive view of the world. These traditions focus mainly on positive illusions, self-deception and
hope and optimism. In order to put forth the realms of positivity, the present discussion will deal with
the third aspect, i.e., Hope and Optimism.