What is the term for the scientific study of optimal human functioning that aims to promote strengths and virtues enabling individuals and communities to thrive?

• A. Clinical psychology
• B. Cognitive psychology
• C. Positive psychology
• D. Developmental psychology

Answer: (C)

Positive psychology focuses on the study of optimal human functioning and the pursuit of well-being. It seeks to promote strengths and virtues—traits that help individuals and communities thrive—like resilience, gratitude, social connectedness, meaning, and happiness. This emphasis on flourishing makes it the best fit, because the question centers on how people can live well and reach their full potential, not just how problems are fixed. Other fields address different concerns: clinical psychology centers on diagnosing and treating mental illness; cognitive psychology explores mental processes such as memory and perception; developmental psychology studies how people change across the lifespan.