Other than posing an interesting question, what is meant by this title? In order to answer that question we need to take a step or two back, back to understanding what are the key differences are between psychology, mythology AND positive psychology.
Defining Terms:
I could suggest that you define the three terms identified above. That would be well and good except our definitions may not match – that would not be so good. So, for the sake of clarity, let’s go with the following:
1. Psychology: Let’s keep it simple, psychology is a scientific discipline that studies mental processes and behaviors.
2. Mythology: The story accepted and believed in different cultures explaining how or why humans act in certain ways.
3. Positive Psychology: The application of psychological principles and practices that emphasize how to achieve a “good life” for oneself.
Why are these important?
Myths:
Among the newer areas of psychology is positive psychology. The very use of the word “positive” has strong Euro-American cultural mythologies attached to it. Most particular this can be found in the work of Norman Vincent Peale, “The Art of Positive Thinking” and similar self-help approaches of making all things better by simply thinking positive. These are myths.
I refer to this myth as thought replacement. It even works for some. The difficulty with this approach is that it remains a superficial solution. Serious work to address your preferred choices in your mental processes and behaviors requires an attitude with a deeper effect. Achieving the good life, that is, a life of contentment calls for something more.
