The 24 psychological strengths according to Martin Seligman represent a conceptual framework that has revolutionized the way we understand psychological well-being and happiness. These strengths, identified through positive psychology research, are personal qualities or traits that contribute to human flourishing and a full, meaningful life. Dr. Martin Seligman, considered one of the fathers of positive psychology, categorized them into six different virtues, each composed of four fundamental strengths. Below, we will explore in detail each of these strengths, their meaning and their importance in personal development.
Virtue of wisdom and knowledge
The first of the six virtues identified by Martin Seligman is wisdom and knowledge. This category includes strengths that are related to acquiring and using information to understand the world and make informed decisions. The four strengths that make up this virtue are:
1. Curiosity
Curiosity refers to the innate desire to explore, discover and learn new things. People with this strength enjoy gaining knowledge, asking questions, and experimenting with the world around them. Curiosity drives creativity, innovation and personal growth.
2. Love of learning
The love of learning is characterized by a constant commitment to acquiring new knowledge and personal improvement. People with this strength enjoy formal and informal education, seek opportunities for growth, and strive to broaden their intellectual horizon.
3. Judgment
Judgment is defined as the ability to analyze situations objectively, evaluate information critically, and make informed decisions. People with this strength tend to be rational, thoughtful, and able to solve problems effectively.
4. Critical thinking
Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze, question, and evaluate information logically and objectively. People with this strength are able to identify biases, fallacies, and erroneous assumptions, allowing them to make informed decisions and solve problems effectively.
Virtue of Courage
The virtue of courage Courage includes strengths that relate to the ability to face fear, adversity, and challenges bravely and determinedly. The four strengths that make up this virtue are:
1. Courage
Courage is the ability to act with determination and strength in difficult, dangerous or challenging situations. People with this strength are able to overcome fear and uncertainty to achieve their goals and defend their principles.
2. Perseverance
Perseverance refers to the ability to maintain effort and dedication despite obstacles, failures and difficulties. People with this strength are persistent, resilient and do not give up easily in the face of adversity.
3. Integrity
Integrity involves consistency between a person's values, beliefs, and actions. Those with this strength act with honesty, respect and ethics, maintaining congruence between what they think, say and do.
4. Vitality
Vitality is defined as the energy, passion and enthusiasm that a person brings to their activities and relationships. People with this strength are dynamic, enthusiastic and spread their optimism and vitality to others.
Virtue of humanity
The virtue of humanity groups together strengths related to social interactions, empathy and compassion towards others. The four strengths that characterize this virtue are:
1. Love
Love refers to the deep and affectionate emotional ties established with other people. Those with this strength value interpersonal relationships, provide emotional support, and cultivate caring and connection with others.
2. Kindness
Kindness involves acting in a selfless and altruistic manner for the benefit of others. People with this strength are compassionate, generous and seek the well-being and happiness of those around them.
3. Emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand and manage one's own emotions and those of others effectively. Those with this strength are aware of their feelings, know how to regulate them and show empathy towards the emotions of others.
4. Social Justice
Social justice involves concern for equity, equality, and human rights. People with this strength fight for justice, defend the values of equality and respect, and seek to contribute to the well-being of society as a whole.
Virtue of temperance
Virtue Temperance includes strengths related to self-control, moderation, and balance in actions and emotions. The four strengths that make up this virtue are:
1. Self-discipline
Self-discipline is characterized by the ability to control impulses, delay gratification, and maintain focus on long-term goals. Those with this strength are able to resist temptation, remain consistent, and follow through on their commitments.
2. Prudence
Prudence implies the ability to reflect on actions, evaluate the consequences and make sensible and balanced decisions. People with this strength consider the long-term implications of their choices and act with judgment and caution.
3. Forgiveness
Forgiveness refers to the ability to free oneself from resentment, anger, and resentment toward those who have caused us harm. Those with this strength practice understanding, compassion and acceptance, promoting reconciliation and emotional growth.
4. Humility
Humility involves recognizing one's own limitations, mistakes and vulnerabilities, as well as valuing and respecting the qualities and achievements of others. Those with this strength show modesty, appreciation for diversity, and a willingness to learn from others.
Virtue of Justice
The virtue of justice encompasses strengths related to fairness, impartiality and commitment to the common good. The four strengths that define this virtue are:
1. Leadership
Leadership is characterized by the ability to positively influence others, inspire trust, and guide teams toward shared goals. Those with this strength exercise authority with responsibility, empathy and ethics, promoting the development and well-being of those they lead.
2. Teamwork
Teamwork involves collaboration, effective communication, and cooperation with others to achieve common goals. Those with this strength value diversity of opinion, foster a climate of trust, and respect the contributions of each team member.
3. Justice
Justice refers to a commitment to equity, equal opportunity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals. Those with this strength uphold truth, fairness, and integrity in their relationships and decisions.
4. Citizenship
Citizenship implies the responsibility to contribute positively to the community, respecting the norms, values and rights of others. Those with this strength actively participate in society, promote solidarity and work for collective well-being.
Conclusions
The 24 psychological strengths identified by Martin Seligman represent fundamental pillars in the construction of a full, meaningful and happy life. By recognizing and developing these strengths in ourselves and others, we can promote emotional well-being, strengthen our interpersonal relationships, and contribute to the flourishing of society as a whole. Positive psychology invites us to focus on the best of the human condition, instead of focusing exclusively on pathologies and deficiencies. By cultivating our strengths and virtues, we can achieve a deeper level of personal satisfaction and contribute to a more positive and resilient world.