Oxford Handbook of Methods in Positive Psychology
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Description
In the short time since the publication of the Handbook of Positive Psychology esearch results on the psychology of human strengths have proliferated. However, no major volume has documented the methods and theory used to achieve these results. Oxford Handbook of Methods in Positive Psychology fills this need, providing a broad overview of diverse contemporary methods in positive psychology.With contributions from both leading scholars and promising young investigators, the handbook serves to illuminate and, at times, challenge traditional approaches. Incorporating multiple levels of analysis, from biology to culture, the contributors present state-of-the art techniques, including those for estimating variability and change at the level of the individual, identifying reliability of measurements within and across individuals, and separating individual differences in growth from aspects of phenomena that exhibit shorter-term variability over time. The volume covers such topics as wisdom, health, hope, resilience, religion, relationships, emotions, well-being, character strengths, and laughter. It enhances our understanding of the balance between human deficits and strengths and demonstrates their connections to other problems.
Oxford Handbook of Methods in Positive Psychology will be the essential reference for methods in positive psychology.
Reviews
"This wonderful book is an absolute must for researchers who are studying positive psychology, and will do much to advance the sophistication of this field. Other scientists, however, will also profit from the excellent treatment of advanced issues by experts in the field, with topics such as hierarchical linear modeling, experience-sampling, dynamic factor analysis and systems analysis, spectral analysis, and latent growth curve models. A bonus is the inclusion of chapters on topics such as hardiness, character, and wisdom that integrate conceptual and methodological issues. This is a superb reference on advanced research design."--Ed Diener, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Editor, Perspectives on Psychological Science , and Journal of Happiness Studies
"This is not a 'shelve-and-forget' book but rather an essential reference work that should be within easy reach of the fingertips of any positive psychologist serious about research. This volume will serve as a catalyst to open new avenues of exploration and rigorous inquiry into aspects of the human condition that lead to happiness, fulfillment, and flourishing."--Robert A. Emmons, Editor-in-Chief, The Journal of Positive Psychology
"I highly recommend this volume to faculty and students interested in cutting-edge research methods and statistics as well as positive psychology. Most methodology books are like the taste of bitter medicine. However, Ong and van Dulmen have succeeded like Mary Poppins, who, with a spoonful of sugar, made the medicine go down even better. Learning about methods and statistics through applications to positive psychology is a marriage made in heaven."--Corey L. M. Keyes, Professor of Sociology and Public Health, Emory University
"Research methods are the backbone of science. In this comprehensive collection, Ong and van Dulmen have compiled lucid descriptions of the many research methods and techniques that collectively will enable the emerging discipline of Positive Psychology to fulfill its promise. From the traditional to the cutting-edge, spanning paradigmatic approaches to advanced statistics, this volume will be very informative to experienced researchers and neophytes alike. Drawing on the varied topics of Positive Psychology, each chapter succinctly illustrates the intricate interplay between concept and method in the creation and application of knowledge. This is an outstanding volume, one that will expand the methodological toolbox of anyone interested in the study of human strengths and virtues."--Harry Reis, Professor of Psychology, University of Rochester
"Ultimately, The Oxford Handbook of Methods in Positive Psychology provides readers with an understanding of the methods necessary to advance the way of the positive psychologist and, more important, a better understanding of human psychology."--PsycCRITIQUES
"This book certainly explores a broad range of methods used in positive psychology, and in a very engaging way...This book will not only be of interest to those already convinced of the value of positive psychology, but also to anyone wishing to learn more about well-being, emotion, social relations and strengths. It is an excellent reference book."--The Psychologist
About the Author(s)
Anthony D. Ong
is Assistant Professor of Human Development at Cornell University. He received his doctorate from the University of Southern California in 2002. His research and scholarly interests center on the nature and development of resilience and positive adaption across the life course. His research has been funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health.
Manfred H.M. vanDulmen
is Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Kent State University. He received his doctorate from the University of Minnesota in 2001. His research focuses on the relationship processes underlying the development of adaptive and maladaptive social behavior during adolescence and young adulthood. He has a special interest in methodological and measurement issues in developmental psychology.
