Positive psychology: A theoretical foundation for recreation therapy practice

Authors

  • David R. Austin, PhD
  • Bryan P. McCormick, PhD, CTRS
  • Marieke Van Puymbroeck, PhD, CTRS

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.2010.0020

Keywords:

positive psychology, recreation therapy, strengths

Abstract

Positive psychology is a burgeoning field that has great application in the field of recreation therapy. It provides a context for the application of recreation therapy interventions and offers an examination of clients in a manner that is holistic and focused on the strengths (rather than the deficits) of the individual. In this article, the roots of positive psychology are discussed and defined, the three pillars of positive psychology are described, and finally, the relationship between positive psychology and recreation therapy is delineated. Positive psychology offers the field of recreation therapy with a firm foundation for theoretical growth and practice.

Author Biographies

David R. Austin, PhD

Professor Emeritus, Recreation, Park, and Tourism Studies, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana.

Bryan P. McCormick, PhD, CTRS

Professor, Recreation, Park, and Tourism Studies, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana.

Marieke Van Puymbroeck, PhD, CTRS

Professor, Recreation, Park, and Tourism Studies, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana.

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Published

07/01/2010

How to Cite

Austin, PhD, D. R., McCormick, PhD, CTRS, B. P., & Van Puymbroeck, PhD, CTRS, M. (2010). Positive psychology: A theoretical foundation for recreation therapy practice. American Journal of Recreation Therapy, 9(3), 17–24. https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.2010.0020

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