Psychology
Objectives
- To gain insight into the field of Positive Psychology
- To understand how Positive Psychology can be applied at the policy level and in institutions
- To explore the differences between the ways that mental health is supported by Danish government and by the Scottish government
Previous Activities Have Included
- Question and answer session with top researchers in the field of mental health
- Academic lecture with the Scottish Deputy Director of Mental Health
- Day hike through the Scottish lowlands
- Edinburgh ghost walk
Description
The Scottish government has managed to use the cornerstones of positive psychology in both policy and practice in order to empower individuals, influence communities, and promote the positive mental health and well-being of all Scottish citizens. This tour explores the link between these aspects, and analyzes its effectiveness. Visits give students a forum to discuss and debate cultural differences within ‘best practice’, and each of the destinations encourages students to explore the historical, economic, and social backgrounds of positive psychology.
Students will observe and discuss public policies, community practices, and individual efforts through their academic study. They will also have the opportunity to dig deeper into the culture of both Glasgow and Edinburgh by attending performances, visiting museum exhibitions, and exploring the highland landscape to add to the understanding of well-being.
Visiting both Glasgow and Edinburgh allows an interesting comparison of the happiness and well-being levels of Scottish citizens in two distinctly different cities. How does life in a larger, more industrial city of working class citizens compare to life in a smaller, wealthier, middle class town? Do these social and economic factors really have an influence on happiness?
Tours integrate theories presented in classroom learning together with practicum observations, field studies, and the tour visits to set the stage for an extended study of positive psychology practices from many different cultural perspectives.
Why Scotland?
As a result of recent legislation, positive mental health and well-being has become a point of interest in Scottish politics, organizations and institutions. In 2009, the Scottish government published a policy and action plan entitled “Toward a Mentally Flourishing Scotland”, which has been nominated for numerous awards and has received much acclaim in the international community. The action plan focuses on the improvement of mental health in infants, children, young people, and the elderly; well-being in communities and places of employment; and the quality of life for those with mental health problems and mental illness. The government has run several campaigns promoting exercise, meaningful relationships, quality time, and strong communities as the ingredients for increased subjective well-being.
