As a matter of fact, psychologists have been deeply associated with the "dark side" of human existence over the years. In traditional psychology, most of our knowledge on the subject was predominantly negative focusing on human errors and sufferings. In the previous decade, however, forces have been growing in psychology to abandon this practice. In part, this may reflect the fact that the pathology model is inadequate in explaining the whole of human nature. Psychologists thus turned to ask the question "what strengths do people bring to deal effectively with their lives?". Positive psychology then emerges to address this key question.

Positive psychology tries to articulate a vision of good life that is scientifically sound while being understandable and attractive. It shows what actions lead to well-being, to positive individuals and to thriving communities. More specifically, positive psychology can help you know how to develop your strengths, what work settings support the greatest satisfaction among workers, and what policies result in the strongest civil engagement.

To enlighten you further on positive psychology, there will be a series on this topic in PSYNET in OffBeat. In the series, we will lead you through several of the human strengths or virtues that psychologists have been studying, namely optimism, forgiveness and hopefulness. The definition and scientific findings of these attributes will be delineated. In addition, suggestions on ways to achieve them will also be given.

We believe that positive psychology in this new century will allow psychologists to understand and build those factors that allow individuals and communities to flourish. Therefore, we hope you will find the series enjoyable and beneficial, and do share with us a positive outlook on life!

Stress management workshops

The PSG will organise a series of stress management workshops to be conducted in Chinese.

Date (choose one):

1. May 11

2. July 6

3. September 14

Time: 8.45 am - 12.30 pm (Participants are requested to arrive 15 minutes early)

Venue: Police Sports and Recreation Club Sportsman Bar

Reservation: PSG (2866-6207)

Thirty places for each session will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Seek advice and help from the Psychological Services Group:

PHQ, Hong Kong Island and Marine: 2866-6206 (5/F, 111 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay); Kowloon and the New Territories: 2735-3739 (22/F, Ocean Building, 80 Shanghai Street, Kowloon).

PEN: psg@police.gov.hk