Impact of Educational Programs That Include Elements of Positive Psychology for Developing the Emotional Competences of the Students

Abstract

Modern education considers schools and faculties for institutions whose goals have a broader scope than just an academic competence. Educational institutions have an obligation to completely prepare young people for adulthood and improve their optimal functioning and well being. This paper shows how the application of the positive psychology in the education can help schools and faculties to develop and maintain optimal functioning of the students and the employees. Educational institutions should approach strategically in the creation of positive educational programs that include elements of positive psychology, which positively reflects on the well-being and positive educational climate. The empirical findings of this paper confirm the role of positive psychology in education for improving the subjective dimensions of students: happiness, optimism, self-confidence, social and emotional competence. Students who attended educational programs with elements of positive psychology, have shown higher personal, emotional, social achievements and general well-being, which are prerequisites for realizing their potential. These findings imply the need to expand the arsenal of education through a positive education that includes the development of positive emotions that promote happiness and well-being.