The Psychology of Wellbeing is an academically rigorous two-week program designed to immerse high school students in the science of happiness and emotional health. By the end of the program, students will develop a personalized action plan based on the research they've studied, equipping them with the knowledge and strategies to continue growing their emotional and mental health beyond the course.
In Week 1, students will explore the foundational principles of positive psychology, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety, learning from cutting-edge research in these areas. Through dynamic lectures, students will delve into the groundbreaking work of renowned psychologists such as Martin Seligman, Brené Brown, and Amy Edmondson. They will critically examine the concepts of vulnerability, emotional awareness, and resilience, and engage in a literature review that links these ideas to current research. In the afternoons, students will apply these academic insights through hands-on activities, including StrengthsFinder assessments, discussions on core values, and goal-setting exercises, all rooted in psychological theory and research.
In Week 2, students will build on this foundation by investigating the practical application of wellbeing strategies, focusing on emotional resilience, change management, and stress management techniques. Mornings will explore how these concepts can be applied in everyday life through academic research, while afternoons will feature experiential learning, including a community service project and a visit to a wellbeing center. Students will engage with the psychology of habit formation, learning how to create lasting changes for long-term wellbeing.
This course is offered at the UMass Mt. Ida campus with commuter and residential options available.
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