The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions.

Abstract

In this article, the author describes a new theoretical perspective on positive emotions and situates this new perspective within the emerging field of positive psychology. The broaden-and-build theory posits that experiences of positive emotions broaden people's momentary thought-action repertoires, which in turn serves to build their enduring personal resources, ranging from physical and intellectual resources to social and psychological resources. Preliminary empirical evidence supporting the broaden-and-build theory is reviewed, and open empirical questions that remain to be tested are identified. The theory and findings suggest that the capacity to experience positive emotions may be a fundamental human strength central to the study of human flourishing.

Cite this

Barbara L. Fredrickson (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions.. American Psychologist. https://doi.org/10.1037//0003-066x.56.3.218

@article{l2001the,
  title  = {The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions.},
  author = {Fredrickson, Barbara L.},
  year   = {2001},
  journal = {American Psychologist},
  doi    = {10.1037//0003-066x.56.3.218}
}

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