PRO Course 1203: Positive Psychology Interventions: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Online Study [1 Credit]

PRO Course 1203: Positive Psychology Interventions: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Online Study [1 Credit]

This online text-based course introduces the learner to interventions that stem from positive psychology in general, and Seligman’s Authentic Happiness Theory specifically. An overview of Seligman’s PERMA model of well-being is presented along with associated research. The course article describes an empirical study intended to determine the impact of online self-administered positive psychology interventions on both happiness and depression. Results of the study as well as real world implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.  

Course Objectives (Learning Outcomes): By successfully completing this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Provide an overview of Seligman’s PERMA Model of well-being, including its five components
2. Discuss research and meta-analyses looking at the efficacy of positive psychology interventions
3. Describe a research project aimed at measuring the impact of online self-administered interventions on self-reported scores of happiness and depression

Last Revision: September, 2022

Audience and Course Level: : This course is appropriate for Psychologists, Mental Health Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists who incorporate positive psychology and well-being into their professional practice. The course level is considered introductory since it introduces the learner to well-being and research that looks at the efficacy of positive psychology interventions.  

Course Utility and Potential Risks/Conflicts: The utility of this course lies in helping practitioners better utilize well-being research and positive psychology interventions.  The course does not include clinical training or certification.  This course is not sponsored by any commercial organizations and no potential conflicts of interest are noted.

Credits: 1.0

Course Instructors: This course was developed by Christopher L. Heffner, PsyD, PhD

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Custom Continuing Education, LLC (DBA AllPsych) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Custom Continuing Education, LLC maintains responsibility for this program and its content.