Buckinghamshire New to hold Applied Positive Psychology Symposium
Positive psychology is a dynamic and fast-growing area that involves the scientific study of well-being and optimal human functioning for individuals, groups, communities and organisations.
In 2012, Buckinghamshire New University established the MSc Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) and became one of only two institutions in the UK to enable its students to explore leading-edge ideas and potentially contribute to the development of this new and exciting discipline.
Graduates from the first MAPP cohort will speak at a symposium on Saturday, 16 May at our High Wycombe Campus. They will be joined by MAPP’s course leaders, Dr Piers Worth and Dr Matthew Smith.
Speakers’ topics include the ‘five ways to well-being’ among young people; the psychology of luck; positive ageing and ‘the brilliance of resilience’ for those living with long-term medical conditions.
Dr Mathew Smith, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, said: “The symposium is such an exciting time for all of us involved with the MSc Applied Positive Psychology at Bucks. This event provides a chance for us to celebrate and share our students’ work and see how they are continuing to apply their learning in their respective professional contexts.”
Dan Collinson, who completed the programme in 2014, will speak about ‘A Strengths-based Process for Leaders’ and explore how this process could shape our future leaders and have a positive impact on performance, work relationships and the well-being of employees. Dan will describe how to maintain a daily focus on strengths and outline how mindfulness can complement this approach.
Rosie Miller, also a 2014 graduate, will talk about the effects of unemployment and how a programme of positive psychology interventions can raise unemployed people’s resilience and well-being, leaving them more positive, proactive and effective in their search for a job.
Dr Smith added: “The study of positive psychology can enhance and develop professional practice skills in a wide range of occupations including human resources; management and sports coaches; psychotherapists; counsellors; teachers and medical professionals. The symposium provides an excellent opportunity to find out more about MAPP and network with practitioners, students and researchers engaged in the field of positive psychology.”
The Applied Positive Psychology Symposium runs from 10am until 5pm and tickets cost £20 which includes lunch and refreshments. The event is free for students and those not in employment. Register online in advance.
Find out more about the MSc Applied Positive Psychology here.
