Plenary Presentation International Positive Psychology Association 7th IPPA World Congress 2021

Fireside Chat: How and Why to Develop Character (#107)

Angela Duckworth 1
  1. University of Pennslyvania, Philadelphia, PENNSYLVANIA, United States

In this talk, Character Lab Founder and CEO Angela Duckworth discusses three different families of character strengths (also known as social-emotional skills, 21 st century skills, whole child capabilities):
Interpersonal strengths like gratitude and generosity enable positive relationships with other people. Intrapersonal strengths like grit and self-control enable the accomplishment of valued goals. Intellectual strengths like curiosity and creativity enable a fertile life of the mind. Character is malleable, and much of Dr. Duckworth’s scientific research examines conditions that enable young people to thrive. In particular, what adults do and say, and opportunities and obstacles, can either encourage or discourage the mindsets and skillsets that underlie character development.

  • Keywords: Family, Relationships