What is Positive Organizational Psychology?

What is Positive Organizational Psychology?

Once upon a time, psychologists working in organizations were typically doing so in service of a firm’s bottom line.
Today, scholars, psychologists, and practitioners are aware of the impact that one’s working life can have on overall functioning and its importance for a fulfilling life.
The research space in which these potentials are explored is broadly known as Positive Organizational Psychology. Those working in this space, which unifies various approaches in organizational studies, aim to create and sustain work environments that support human potential, thriving, and individual and collective wellbeing.
In this article, we’ll summarize the key research streams that have emerged in the field of Positive Organizational Psychology and point you toward additional reading and materials to guide you if you wish to learn more.
Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Leadership Exercises for free. These detailed, science-based exercises will help you or others adopt positive leadership practices and help organizations thrive.