Paradoxes in the pursuit of psychological well-being [Article]

By: Brady, Therese [Author]Material type: ArticleArticleDescription: Journal article; 22 pSubject(s): Psychology | HappinessDDC classification: Journal folder - B In: Irish Journal of Psychology 1990, Vol.11 no.3, pp 277 - 298Summary: Psychologists share with other mental health professionals a commitment to the promotion of the psychological well-being of individuals, families and communities, and seek to apply the knowledge and insights of psychology towards this end. It is argued here, however, that the application of advances in psychological knowledge, while helpful for many individuals, is unhelpful for some; that an enthusiasm for the development of individuals' potential and happiness may, by creating unrealistic expectations, increase the sense of inadequacy of many; and that a preoccupation with psychological well-being and happiness promotes denial of the reality of distress and suffering, thereby adding to the burden of those who are suffering by making them feel guilty about being unhappy. It is argued that to deny the legitimacy of suffering is to ignore its essential role and value in life, and that such an approach fails to take account of the resilience of human beings to cope with life's struggles.
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Articles Articles The Thérèse Brady Library
Archive of IHF Publications and Reports Journal folder - B (Browse shelf(Opens below)) Not for loan

Article published in Irish Journal of Psychology 1990, Vol.11 no.3, pp 277 - 298

Psychologists share with other mental health professionals a commitment to the promotion of the psychological well-being of individuals, families and communities, and seek to apply the knowledge and insights of psychology towards this end. It is argued here, however, that the application of advances in psychological knowledge, while helpful for many individuals, is unhelpful for some; that an enthusiasm for the development of individuals' potential and happiness may, by creating unrealistic expectations, increase the sense of inadequacy of many; and that a preoccupation with psychological well-being and happiness promotes denial of the reality of distress and suffering, thereby adding to the burden of those who are suffering by making them feel guilty about being unhappy. It is argued that to deny the legitimacy of suffering is to ignore its essential role and value in life, and that such an approach fails to take account of the resilience of human beings to cope with life's struggles.

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