re interested in neuroplasticity - Brief Summary
Dr Robert Isler: Sharing inspirational insights and practical applications of Positive Psychology
If you attended this talk please answer a few feedback questions here!
1. This talk will first briefly define what Positive Psychology is (the science of wellbeing, what makes us flourishing – the good life) and what it is not (Happiology). It does not ignore the negative stuff but it is mainly focused on understanding positive emotions, signature strengths and resilience.
For a short overview of Positive psychology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qJvS8v0TTI
Get in touch with me: Robert@Isler.co.nz if you wish a summary article.
2. What are the strongest predictors for a good life?
The skills of building social capacity by deeply connecting with some people who are on the ‘same frequency’.
Brenee Brown: Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued; when they can give and receive without judgement; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship. Disconnection is often equated with social rejection, social exclusion, and /or social isolation.
Recommended Brenee Brown’s
Epigenetics: the study of changes in organisms caused by the modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.
Steve W. Cole: The genomic perspective on human well-being
- Being connected is as good as smoking is bad for your health (Life expectancy)
- Social isolation downregulates the expression of gens that promote wellbeing!
Barbara Frederickson: The role of positive emotions in Positive Psychology
- The Broaden and Build Theory: Positive Emotions broaden our momentary thought-action repertoires, creating opportunities for building enduring personal resources - long lasting beneficial effects on our lives.
- We need three positive emotions for each negative emotion; Positivity ratio: 3:1
- Compare sailing yacht’s sail 3* and keel 1*
- Can you recognize and label the emotions you experience?
- According to Brenee Brown: Most people can only identify three emotions: Happy, sad and pissed off.
- Important is that we label our emotions correctly because language seems to be an ingredient of emotions shaping its experience.
Positive Psychology and Road Safety:
- Positive Psychology is the scientific study of the strengths that enable individuals and communities to thrive .. and to drive safely
- There is a extremely strong correlation between life satisfaction and Driver Violation
- What is your response when someone overtakes dangerously and recklessly: Raging anger?
- How about some compassion and curiosity for the underlying cause of reckless driving? It is very likely that the driver is unwell - perhaps overwhelmed, putting himself or herself (and others) in great danger.
- Flourishing Drivers: are neither bored nor stressed - are mindful to present moments - have good emotional and impulse control - do not ruminate or mind wander - are assertive but not defensive - are kind, generous, loving - have good relationships – and .... are safe drivers!
Positive Psychology and Neuroscience
Neuroplasticity: The ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to the learning or experience or following injury.
The mind is what the brain does.
- fMRIs can observe the brain at work and has been useful in answering positive psychology questions.
- e.g., Tania Singer and Olga M. Klimeck: Difference between empathy and compassion
(see reading)
Please feel free to get in touch with me Robert@Isler.co.nz
Questions
1. From Bobbie: It is being used in studies regarding Generational and Historical Trauma.
2. From Toni: Because it is an expression vs a permanent change in the genetic code, is it a longer term change or can it change?
3. From Toni: is Brene’s sample of analysis based in America? compared with say Europe?
4. From Annick: Is the correlation between life satisfaction and driver violation age dependant?
5. From Christina: What was the reference for the compassion/empathy article please?
6. Many people in the audience are keen to hear more about your story Robert!... So the question is when will that new lecture be?
