Martin E.P. Seligman

Martin E.P. Seligman is a psychologist renowned for his work in positive psychology, a field focused on understanding and fostering human strengths and well-being. He initially studied learned helplessness, revealing how people can become passive when faced with uncontrollable situations, and later shifted towards promoting resilience, optimism, and happiness through practical strategies. His research emphasizes that cultivating positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement—collectively called "PERMA"—can enhance life satisfaction. Seligman's work aims to help individuals and communities thrive by focusing on strengths rather than just treating mental illness.