In this 4-page paper, students will select one core positive psychology construct introduced in Modules 12 (i.e., character strengths or one of the cognitive approaches from our textbook chapters) and critically examine how the construct is conceptualized, measured, and applied, with particular attention to the constructs contextual factors, cultural assumptions, and cultural implications. Rather than summarizing the theory or construct, students are expected to analyze underlying assumptions, evaluate empirical evidence supporting or challenging these assumptions across cultural contexts, and propose culturally responsive adaptations.
Students should demonstrate graduate-level critical thinking, synthesis, and scholarly writing. Papers should move beyond description to thoughtful analysis and application.
Specific Procedures
Please use the following prompts and headings to guide your writing. Your submitted paper should include at least the following headings (or appropriate variations) to structure your work.
- Introduction
- Clearly state your argument or central position
- Provide an overview of the paper for your reader
- 3-5 sentences
- Brief introduction to the selected construct
- I.e., what does the theory/construct posit?
- Less than page
- How the construct is conceptualized, measured, and applied
- Use this to set yourself up for the next prompt/heading
- Approximately page
- Identification of cultural assumptions of the construct
- Ground this in your examination above
- Approximately – page
- The validity of these cultural assumptions across cultural contexts
- Can use the to help you consider cultural context broadly; can also consider individualistic vs. collectivistic cultures
- E.g., XXXs study (2026) supports the validity of these cultural assumptions in ABC culture while YYYs study (2026) does not support the validity of them in DEF culture and GHI culture.
- Approximately 1 – 1 pages
- Proposed culturally responsive adaptions of the selected construct
- Approximately 1 – 1 page
- Conclusion
- Reiterate and synthesize key ideas to reinforce your argument
- 3-5 sentences
Examples
Argument Example 1: Hope Theory and Cultural Assumptions of Agency (Open AI, 2024)
Although hope theory is widely supported as a cognitive mechanism for goal pursuit and resilience, it is grounded in culturally specific assumptions about individual agency and goal ownership that are not universally applicable. Empirical evidence suggests that hope is expressed and operationalized differently in collectivistic and interdependent cultural contexts, indicating the need for culturally responsive adaptations that emphasize relational pathways and shared agency rather than individual goal attainment alone.
Argument Example 2: Character Strengths and Cultural Bias in Measurement (Open AI, 2024)
The classification and measurement of character strengths reflect implicit Western cultural values, such as individual achievement, assertiveness, and self-expression, which may limit their validity across diverse cultural contexts. While strengths-based frameworks offer an important alternative to deficit-oriented models of mental health, empirical findings across cultures suggest that culturally grounded strengths are underrepresented, necessitating more inclusive conceptualizations and measurement approaches to ensure equitable application.
Reference
OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (GPT-4 version) [Large language model].
Additional Requirements
- Include at least 8 academic references, integrating course readings from Modules 1 and 2 and additional peer-reviewed sources.
- Use APA 7th edition formatting for the title page, layout, in-text citations, and references; an abstract is not required
- The paper should be close to 4 pages in length (excluding title page and list of references), including 12-point font (e.g., Times New Roman or another APA-approved font), double spacing, and 1-inch margins.
- All assignments should be written with organization and proper writing mechanics.
- Submit your paper in DOC, DOCX, or PDF format. The submission system will not accept other file types, so ensure the software you use allows saving in one of these formats.
Requirements: 4 pages
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