ABSTRACT
Our goal in this chapter is to discuss how positive psychology constructs may be extremely relevant to the work of health psychologists and health..focused counseling psychologists. We discuss the potential integra.. tion of positive and health psychology perspectives into a field that exam.. ines the development and interaction of positive psychology constructs, supportive social environments, health..promoting behaviors, and optimal physiology. Research in this area could explore, for example, if increasing levels of positive psychology variables, such as compassion or humor, might influence physical or social health. Conversely, might interventions target.. ing physiological, behavioral, or social outcomes also influence positive psy.. chology constructs? We have selected as examples three relevant areas of positive psychology in which theoretical developments, associated inter.. vention strategies, as well as actual or emerging research programs exist: (a) forgiveness, (b) social-emotional support, and (c) spirituality.
