The Psychology Book

IN CONTEXT

APPROACH

Positive psychology

BEFORE

1950s Carl Rogers develops the concept and practice of “client-centerd” therapy.

1954 Abraham Maslow uses the term “positive psychology” for the first time, in his book Motivation and Personality.

1960s Aaron Beck exposes the weaknesses of traditional psychoanalytical therapy, and proposes cognitive therapy.

AFTER

1990 Mihály Csíkszentmihályi publishes Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, based on his research into the links between meaningful, engaging activity and happiness.

1994 Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Wherever You Go, There You Are introduces the idea of “mindfulness meditation” to cope with stress, anxiety, ...