Abstract
This chapter argues that the fields of emotion regulation and positive psychology have been dominated by a hedonic view of optimal functioning. It first discusses the contributions of the hedonic view to both fields, and then considers its critical limitations. It then points to a broader conception of optimal functioning, which is based on a motivated view of human nature. It describes a new approach to emotion regulation that is based on this broader conception of optimal functioning and review related to empirical evidence. The chapter concludes with the hope that the instrumental approach to emotion regulation might stimulate a similar shift in positive psychology, toward a broader view of optimal functioning that acknowledges-but moves beyond-pleasure and pain.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Designing Positive Psychology |
| Subtitle of host publication | Taking Stock and Moving Forward |
| Editors | Kennon M. Sheldon, Todd B. Kashdan, Michael F. Steger |
| Place of Publication | New York |
| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
| Chapter | 6 |
| Pages | 89–100 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9780199893263 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780195373585 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 1 May 2011 |
Publication series
| Name | Series in positive psychology |
|---|
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2011 by Oxford University Press, Inc. All rights reserved.
Keywords
- Emotion regulation
- Instrumental approach
- Optimal functioning
- Positive psychology