Psychology+of+Happiness+and+Well+Being


 * How to incorporate the science of well-being into the introductory psychology course **

Debra Park Rutgers University, Camden NJ

Helping students identify their strengths, talents, and purposes during their adolescent development can impact their identity in a positive way and empower them in ways that will lead to a more successful transition from high school to college to adulthood. Skills that will help them enter the workforce and contribute to their society in a positive fashion are important and can be studied through themes related to personal well-being habits. Personal well-being habits and social emotional learning skills can be the focus of psychology lessons but can also be integrated into other subjects.To teach these skills, seven research-based habits of well-being (i.e., relationships, caring, flow, health and wellness, positive mindset, meaning (or purpose), and strengths) can be integrated into units of study.

CAT FooD (for thought) is a blog which is written by the faculty and staff of the [|Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Faculty Development] at [|Xavier University of Louisiana]. I was honored to do an interview that focused on well-being, teaching and learning. If you want to listen to the discussion I had with Elizabeth Yost Hammer, PhD, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans here is the link: A conversation with Deb Park: Well- Being https://cat.xula.edu/food/conversation-34/

I wrote an article for the PTN, TOPSS newsletter that I have attached below. I am also adding other resources to this WIKI that I use in my class at RU that I hope you will find useful. Please email me if you have any questions or want any ideas for your course!



I have unit plans made up relating to all seven of the research-based habits mentioned above. Here is one on Character Strengths and Virtues. I think this would be a great way to start the school year - or it can be used when teaching many other concepts in your class. I listed some of the Standards that I believe it is closely linked to in the plan.



Here are some key links to resources I use and I mentioned in the plan. Super websites and materials you should check out and share with other teachers as well...NOT just psychology!!!!

Ways to use VIA Character Strengths

[|VIA Videos]

[|The Science of Character Video and Resources]

Found this list on a professor's website...as soon as I can remember whose, I will give them credit!!!! I have chosen several of these to put on Reserve in the library for my students to read and use them for discussion and article review assignments.