"I can sum up positive psychology in just three words - other people matter. Period. Anything that builds relationships between and among people is going to make you happy." - Dr. Chris Peterson
What is The Positivity Project?
The Positivity Project (P2) is dedicated to empowering America's youth to build positive relationships by recognizing character strengths in themselves and others. Their vision is to help schools and families cultivate citizens and leaders who will enhance our communities and country. Positive psychology’s scientifically validated 24 character strengths serve as its foundation. Positive psychology teaches that people have all 24 strengths within them – and that character is not just skills or behaviors, but rather an intrinsic part of each of us.
P2 is not a program with strict guidelines. Instead, it educates teachers on the character strengths and relies on
them to teach in a way that best meets their students’ needs. It is a school-wide endeavor, grounded in the
consistency of daily classroom instruction. Their model is holistic; it incorporates students, educators, and parents through regular interaction with character strengths vocabulary and concepts.
The project will help educators instill vocabulary and the meaning of the strengths through explicit teaching of each strength for 15 minutes per day. Schools will dedicate one week to each strength to help students understand them through definition, examples, discussions, and exercises. Schools and educators are encouraged to tailor the materials for their own best use, as they know their students and curriculum better than anyone else.
What are the benefits of implementing The Positivity Project?
By consistently teaching students about the character strengths that people possess, they see themselves and other people based on the content of their character. This ability enhances their self-awareness and self-confidence, understanding and appreciation of others, and interpersonal relationships - which, in the long-term, will positively influence students across their lifespans. In the long run, it leads to more positive interactions and positive relationships within classrooms and schools -- ultimately leading to a more positive school culture that supports teachers' ability to teach and students' ability to learn.
P2 evolves throughout a student's entire school career. As students grow and understand character through instruction and experience, the strengths gain more meaning.
P2 empowers students by acknowledging that the 24 character strengths are already part of who they are as people. It helps them realize that each and every one of them can tap into these strengths -- and not just as students, but for the rest of their lives.
How can you help?
Family involvement is an integral part of student success. We would love for you to take an active role in your child's character strength education. By using the character strengths vocabulary and having discussions about the concepts, you will help your child understand the character in themselves and others in a different light. P2 for families (password: P2) provides an easy, accessible way to reiterate the character strengths vocabulary and have meaningful discussions about the importance of relationships at home.
