A Critique of Guided Self-Optimisation: Mental Health, Success, Happiness, and Virtue in Missionary Positive Psychology and Psychotherapy

Abstract

Positive Psychology (PP) and the closely related Positive Psychotherapy (PPT) are established in various countries. This article is dedicated to the central principles and axioms, concepts, findings, and ambitions of PP and PPT. This is done with critical intent. It is argued that focussing on the so-called "positive" has more than just theoretical and methodological deficits. PP and PPT are also deconstructed as an ideological and missionary worldview that propagates a "new human being." PP and PPT are currently among the strongest drivers of scientifically guided and animated self-optimisation in several institutions.