Cultural Psych of Happiness
The Cultural Psychology of Happiness Why are Danish citizens among the happiest people in the world? What is happiness, and what are the conditions for human flourishing? How are psychology and culture related? In this first-year seminar we will explore research from both cultural and positive psychology in a Danish context. We will read and discuss psychological perspectives on the topic, conduct interviews, take field trips, connect ideas and research to our own lives, and write and present what we are learning. The goal of this course is to develop a broader understanding of the role of culture in psychological processes and how societies can support or restrain human satisfaction, as well as to address implications for ourselves and for a global, multicultural society.
The Cultural Psychology of Happiness Why are Danish citizens among the happiest people in the world? What is happiness, and what are the conditions for human flourishing? How are psychology and culture related? In this first-year seminar we will explore research from both cultural and positive psychology in a Danish context. We will read and discuss psychological perspectives on the topic, conduct interviews, take field trips, connect ideas and research to our own lives, and write and present what we are learning. The goal of this course is to develop a broader understanding of the role of cul …Read more
Great class. Barb is clearly very passionate about positive psychology and did everything she could to make the class very interactive and ensure everyone participated. Her grading is very critical, but fair, and I feel like my writing greatly improved while in her class. She encourages introspection and to apply what you learn in her class to your daily life.
Honestly Barbara is very professional and insightful. She was always very understanding yet firm. I appreciate her insight always. She has a way of giving you affirmation without buttering your buns...and can just as easily give you criticism in the same constructive manner.
Beyond being a deeply knowledgeable person on positive psychology, she also knows how to maintain an engaging and inclusive classroom environment. She encourages participation and discussion in class, most notably, how a student's unique background may affect how they perceive class content. She sometimes has her "quirky" moments, but Barbara is a joy and encouraging professor. This is a solid class!
Beyond being a deeply knowledgeable person on positive psychology, she also knows how to maintain an engaging and inclusive classroom environment. She encourages participation and discussion in class, most notably, how a student's unique background may affect how they perceive class content. She sometimes has her "quirky" moments, bu …Read more
I really love Barbara's enthusiasm and passion towards the course materials and teaching itself. This class is highly discussion based with above average amount of reading. We have three paper throughout the semester and the grading scale is fair. I really enjoyed this class of a head start for the first year in college.
There's always something to read for class, but the readings are usually short. The readings encourage you to think introspectively and be more conscious of your own actions and the effect they have on happiness. The professor is very enthusiastic and is willing to help you improve.
This class was offered as part of the first-year study abroad program in Copenhagen, Denmark in collaboration with DIS. The class itself was very interesting as it delved into Danish culture and shared psychological theories behind happiness and wellbeing.
First Year student in Copenhagen. The class was made up of many discussions and readings of varying lengths, as well as three papers, and five reflection assignments. Although the main focus of the overall class shifted, and was certainly more of a sociology class than a psychology class, Barbara was very passionate about the course content and is a professor that cares about her students (more than any other professor I have had, at least). She is a very fast grader and provides decent feedback. Some of her instructions are unclear, but she is willing to adjust. The class was overall very interesting, and the small classroom environment was a lovely bonding experience.
First Year student in Copenhagen. The class was made up of many discussions and readings of varying lengths, as well as three papers, and five reflection assignments. Although the main focus of the overall class shifted, and was certainly more of a sociology class than a psychology class, Barbara was very passionate about the course …Read more
I enjoyed the following: personal reflection assignments, a total of three papers (this is the perfect amount to improve quality of writing over the course of the semester), class discussions, positive psychology content, and assigned readings that were relevant and interesting without being overwhelming. I would improve the following: generalizations about certain cultures, acknowledge critical views towards Danish society as well, and more office hours when essays are assigned. Overall, the course was very interesting, and the professor was very personable and enthusiastic about the topic.
I enjoyed the following: personal reflection assignments, a total of three papers (this is the perfect amount to improve quality of writing over the course of the semester), class discussions, positive psychology content, and assigned readings that were relevant and interesting without being overwhelming. I would improve the followin …Read more
the class was interesting and it was nice to experience the topics discussed in readings while being in Copenhagen. at points the attitude of the professor wasn't the best but overall it was a nice and engaging class