This presentation describes a Positive Psychology training program developed and distributed in a large technical organization that employs primarily scientists and engineers. The program was a grass roots effort that was undertaken by the scientists and engineers themselves, with little direct involvement from the organization’s leadership or training department. The intent of the program was to improve the culture and morale at the organization, while also helping individuals flourish. Over a period of four years approximately 400 individuals and 10 instructors were trained. The program was initiated by the presenter and spearheaded by a small group of dedicated supporters.
Specific techniques that worked well to bring Positive Psychology to this unusual and highly skeptical audience will be discussed. These techniques include a three part training strategy that was made up of 1) detailed explanations of individual scientific studies, 2) class exercises and descriptions of various techniques and interventions for the students to try, and 3) class discussion of homework assignments where students shared the impact Positive Psychology was having on their lives. Other effective aspects of the training program were instructors from the target population, instruction materials developed and delivered by these instructors, and the use of other programs to promote the training to potential students and to develop the Positive Psychology training materials.
How the program was initially set up will also be discussed. Especially important was sensitivity about communicating with the organization’s leadership along with the training, HR, psychology, and medical departments. Other aspects of the initial set up were also important, including how potential problems and road-blocks were identified and avoided, and how champions were recruited.
The name of the large technical organization will not be shared as it was not directly involved in preparing this submission.