---
title: Positive Psychology Definition
description: Definitions for positive psychology and positive psychology coaching and more.
---

[Coaching Blog](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog)

# [Positive Psychology Definition](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/positive-psychology-definition)

 Written by [Julia Stewart](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/author/julia-stewart) | May 26, 2016 7:08:49 PM

<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positive_psychology>

I write frequently about [positive psychology](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/bid/94238/Positive-Psychology-25-Fun-Facts-About-Love-2-0) and especially, [positive psychology coaching](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/positive-psychology-coaching-how-do-you-define-happiness). But how do experts define positive psychology and what exactly is a positive psychology coach?

**Positive Psychology Definition:** Positive psychology is based on research into what causes happiness and well-being and enables people to flourish (Stewart, 2016, A2-1 Coaching Guide:  Introduction to Positive Psychology for Coaches Class 1: Introduction).

This definition was gleaned from the writings of various positive psychology experts, such as Martin E. P. Seligman, Father of Positive Psychology, and Barbara L. Fredrickson, President, [International Positive Psychology Association](http://www.ippanetwork.org/) (IPPA).

**Positive Psychology Coach Definition**: A positive psychology coach is a coach who expertly coaches using research-based positive psychology practices.

[Go here for definitions of coaching](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/topic/what-is-a-life-coach) from the International Coach Federation (ICF) and School of Coaching Mastery (SCM).

**How does one [become a positive psychology coach](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/become-a-positive-psychology-coach)?** Currently, there are two pathways to becoming a [positive psychology coach](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/should-you-become-a-positive-psychology-coach-take-this-free-quiz). One is to hobble together several courses in coaching and positive psychology. The second is to take fully integrated positive psychology coaching classes at School of Coaching Mastery.

**How can you get a certificate in positive psychology coaching?** Take the [Introduction to Positive Psychology for Coaches](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/positive-psychology-certificate), which is an 8-hour, 4-week introduction to the positive psychology practices that are most beneficial to coaches. 

**How can you become a [Certified Positive Psychology Coach®](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/certified-positive-psychology-coach-program)**? Enroll in the Certified Positive Psychology Coach® program. Most coaches take about a year to complete it.

**What's the difference between the Positive Psychology Certificate and the Certified Positive Psychology Coach® credential?** The Positive Psychology Certificate is a certificate of completion. It means you completed a course in positive psychology. The Certified Positive Psychology Coach® credential is a stamp of approval from School of Coaching Mastery that says you have met the requirements for professional positive psychology coaching skills.

I hope these positive psychology definitions are useful to you.

**Become a Certified Positive Psychology Coach®:**

[View full post](https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/positive-psychology-definition)

```json
{
  "@context" : "http://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Julia Stewart"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2016-05-26T20:34:18.003Z",
  "datePublished" : "2016-05-26T19:08:49Z",
  "headline" : "Positive Psychology Definition",
  "image" : {
    "@type" : "ImageObject",
    "height" : 129,
    "url" : "http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/41761/Positive_Psychology_from_Wilipedia.png",
    "width" : 596
  },
  "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.schoolofcoachingmastery.com/coaching-blog/positive-psychology-definition",
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "height" : 60.0,
      "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/41761/file-596250654.jpg",
      "width" : 96.38297
    },
    "name" : "Coaching Blog"
  }
}
```