Over the last three years, the authors have conducted an extensive systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature published since the inception of the field of positive psychology in 1998 up to 2013. Their review reveals that there has been tremendous growth in published literature and a plethora of theory, research and applications related to positive psychology in the context of organizations and workplaces. Further, there has been innovative research conducted in positive organizational scholarship and positive organizational behavior areas spurring growth in new and interesting directions. The proposed project is the first textbook on positive organizational psychology that defines, describes and synthesizes this work. Our aim is to provide an instructional guide that encapsulates the growth of the field and the latest state-of-the-art theories, research, and applications in a succinct and engaging format.


The main goals of this textbook are:

1) To teach about positive organizational psychology as a field, giving students a sense of the breadth and depth

2) To demonstrate a clear grounding in empirical research and evidence-based practice, thereby nullifying the frivolousness and Pollyannaish optimism sometimes associated with positive psychology

3) To provide students with an honest and balanced view of positive organizational psychology by also including the limitations of the research, relevant critiques, and advice on the extent to which findings can be generalized or applied

4) To spark a sense of curiosity and hunger for more, to leave students with inspiring ideas and questions to think about and discuss with peers and teachers, to motivate students to undertake further study and engage in research

5) To serve as a useful and handy tool for teachers, and complement this text with web-support making it easy to structure a class, facilitate exercises, discussions, projects, and so on.


Table of Contents

1) Introduction to Positive Organizational Psychology

2) Research Methods for Positive Organizational Psychology

3) Positive Psychological States, Traits and Processes at Work

4) Strengths and Virtues in the Workplace

5) Positive Leadership

1) Positive Relationships at Work

2) Positive Organizational Behavior

3) Positive Organizational Structures

4) Positive Organizational Development and Change

5) Positive Human Resource Practices

6) Organizational Virtuousness and Ethics

7) Workplace Well-being, Thriving and Flourishing