PSY 3430 - The Science of Subjective Well Being and Positive Psychology

This course reviews what is known from scientific studies about human flourishing, wellness, and subjective well-being. It also covers how scientific evidence is gained in this field, as well as the important questions that remain unanswered. A number of topics are covered: a) Defining and measuring well-being, including the strengths and limitations of these measures, b) Individual determinants of well-being, including genetic, childhood, and life circumstances, c) Cultural and national determinants of well-being, d) Universal versus culture-specific causes of well-being, e) Downstream behavioral and health outcomes of well-being, and f) Using well-being account to guide public policy. Students will learn both what is known in this field, and how to evaluate evidence in this regard.