Second wave of positive psychology: beyond the dichotomy of positive and negative and the consequences in the practice of psychotherapy

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this article is to investigate how the dialectic process of “positive” and “negative” captures the complexity of well-being and other important psychological processes in the practice of psychotherapy. The second wave positive psychology that has more recently emerged has raised further concerns and questions about the major assumptions of the initial attitude of positive psychology, which questions the dichotomy between positive and negative, challenges the very notion of “positive”, and explores the intricate interplays between so-called positive and negative psychological processes. It also examines the implications of this dichotomy for psychotherapy and how modern clinical practice can overcome the non-fertile differences of the previous period. Finally, possible ways of using the evolving knowledge in positive psychology from counseling psychology are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Second wave
• positive psychology
• dichotomy
• psychotherapy
• well-being

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No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

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Katerina Flora

Katerina Flora is a lecturer of clinical psychology at Neapolis University Pafos. Shehas studied psychology and has postgraduate studies in clinical and social psychology,specializing in addictions and psychosocial problems, in social and politicaltheory, and in European literature. She has worked in psychosocial rehabilitationstructures and as a therapist for children and adults. She has published scientificpapers in international journals and she has conference presentations in the field ofpsychosocial problems and psychotherapy. Her research interests include the preventionand treatment of psychosocial problems, positive psychology, narrative approach,and the study of the social factors of mental illness.