Talk by Heidi Zetzer – “Unpacking Toxic Positivity”

About the talk:

Life has its ups and downs. We need both highs and lows to appreciate being alive; to be motivated; to make meaning. We also need each other.  How we help each other during the lows and join in the celebration of the highs makes a difference.  In the lows, too much positivity can be toxic and too much commiserate brooding may be depressing.  In the highs, a low-key response can be dismissive and exaggerated exuberance may seem fake.  What’s a good friend/spouse/partner/family member/supervisor/mentor supposed to do?

The purpose of this pub talk is to introduce you to positive psychology concepts and practices that will help you find a balance between joining in the lows and heightening the highs, between “holding space” for hard times and identifying strengths, and between toxic positivity and real happiness. Three simple practices will help you find your way…

About the speaker:

Dr. Heidi A. Zetzer is a Teaching Professor and the Director of the Carol Ackerman Positive Psychology Clinic in the Department of Counseling, Clinical, & School Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara.  She is the former director of the department’s psychology training clinic. Dr. Zetzer teaches positive psychology, helping skills, and clinical supervision and consultation courses.   She also directs the department’s counseling and clinical externships.