Reflections on Positive Emotions and Upward Spirals

Overview

Journal Perspect Psychol Sci

Specialty Psychology

Date 2018 Mar 30

PMID 29592643

Citations 74

Authors

Barbara L Fredrickson

Thomas Joiner

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

We reflect on our 2002 article and the impact this research report has had both within and beyond psychological science. This article was both one of the first publications to provide empirical support for hypotheses based on the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions and a product of the genesis of positive psychology. We highlight empirical and theoretical advancements in the scientific understanding of upward spiral dynamics associated with positive emotions, with particular focus on the new upward spiral theory of lifestyle change. We conclude by encouraging deeper and more rigorous tests of the prospective and reciprocal relations associated with positive emotions. Such progress is needed to better inform translations and applications to improve people's health and well-being.

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