Which of the following is part of the positive psychology movement?

• A. Emphasizing the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders
• B. Analyzing the effects of punishment on behavior
• C. Focusing on strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive
• D. Studying unconscious motives and childhood experiences

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the positive psychology movement is a branch of psychology that focuses on what makes life worth living, emphasizing human strengths and well-being rather than just mental illness.
2. Recognize that traditional psychology often centers on diagnosing and treating mental disorders, which is different from the positive psychology approach.
3. Note that analyzing the effects of punishment on behavior is more related to behaviorism and learning theories, not positive psychology.
4. Identify that studying unconscious motives and childhood experiences is a focus of psychoanalytic theory, which contrasts with the positive psychology emphasis on conscious strengths and virtues.
5. Conclude that the positive psychology movement is best represented by the option that highlights focusing on strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive.