Sikhism and Positive Psychology

Abstract

Religion is a faith system and can be seen as a guidebook to help people live their lives. Positive psychology addresses societal problems in a way that helps people capitalize on their strengths and lead more satisfying and meaningful lives (Gable & Haidt, 2005). For positive psychologists, it is beneficial to better understand how religion and religious values, beliefs, and practices can be important sources of strength to individuals, families, and communities. In this chapter, we first outline Sikh history and its beliefs and symbols. Next, we discuss Sikhism's contributions to positive functioning and well-being using the positive psychology framework as described by Dahlsgaard, Peterson, and Seligman (2005). In addition, we reference other key elements of positive psychology (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). We focus on three areas that are key to promoting well-being in Sikhism: interdependence with family, community, and religion; community service; and social justice. We use community and religious experiences and events to demonstrate how the values, beliefs, and practices of Sikhism promote the psychological well-being of its members; and how positive psychology is a helpful lens through which to gauge human potentials, motives, and capacities, as well as to witness human thriving, adaptation and resilience. Finally, we reflect on next steps and how we can further investigate Sikhism's contribution to positive psychology. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)