CLSOCPY005 - The Psychology of Flourishing
What does it take to flourish and live fully, even in challenging times? How can insights from the field of positive psychology help to enhance our lives? Bridging science and practice, Sandra Parsons, Ph.D., reviews research on the psychology of flourishing and shares evidence-based interventions that may improve well-being. This course highlights topics such as happiness, meaning, self-compassion, mindfulness, resilience and optimism, focusing on how our thoughts, feelings and behaviors can shape life satisfaction. We practice strategies in class and compare our outcomes with published data, with ample time for discussions. You are invited to apply these approaches to your own life and consider their implications for community institutions such as the workplace and school. We also consider the challenges of fostering well-being in the context of systems with embedded injustice. Throughout the course, we explore how to make the most of your life experiences in a post-pandemic world.
Note: This course is offered for educational purposes only. Please consult with the professional of your choosing if you are seeking specific therapeutic or medical advice.
Course Details
Sandra Vaughan Parsons, Ph.D., is an associate teaching professor and director of pedagogy in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Rice University. She also serves as a resident associate faculty fellow for Will Rice College. Dr. Parsons teaches Introduction to Social Psychology, Research Methods, Emotion and Motivation and Positive Psychology, among other topics, and conducts pedagogical research with Rice’s Center for Teaching Excellence. She holds a Ph.D. in social psychology from Miami University and has received numerous teaching awards including the Nicolas Salgo Distinguished Teacher Award and the Sarah A. Burnett Teaching Prize in the Social Sciences.
On Campus
This course will be delivered on campus / in person. Classroom and parking information will be sent prior to your course start date.
- Happiness, with a capital “H”
- The science and practice of mindfulness
- Self-compassion
- Resilience and optimism
- Positive institutions
- Applications and the meaning of life
Department of Psychological Sciences, Rice University
This course is offered for educational purposes only. Please consult with the professional of your choosing if you are seeking specific therapeutic or medical advice.