Information Package / Course Catalogue
Virtues in Positive Psychology
Course Code: FDB536
Course Type: Area Elective
Couse Group: Second Cycle (Master's Degree)
Education Language: Turkish
Work Placement: N/A
Theory: 3
Prt.: 0
Credit: 3
Lab: 0
ECTS: 5
Objectives of the Course

The aim of this course is to comprehensively examine the theoretical foundations, measurement, and impact of virtues and character strengths in positive psychology on individual and societal well-being. The course examines the psychological functions of virtues, their relationship to positive personality development, and how these virtues can be applied in areas such as education, psychological counseling, and personal development. It also aims to provide a theoretical and practical perspective on the design and implementation of virtue-based interventions.

Course Content

This course examines the fundamental concepts of positive psychology—virtues and character strengths—with a theoretical and applied framework. The historical development of positive psychology, the philosophical roots of the concept of virtue, and its place in modern psychology are discussed. Based on the VIA classification developed by Seligman and Peterson, the sub-dimensions of wisdom, courage, humanitarianism, justice, moderation, and transcendence are examined in detail. The course focuses on the measurement and development of character strengths and their relationship to psychological well-being. Furthermore, the application of virtues in education, business, corporate culture, and counseling is evaluated through case studies and research findings.

Name of Lecturer(s)
Lec. Muhammed TOSUN
Learning Outcomes
1.She knows the virtues.
2.Define the virtues.
3.Analyze views on virtues.
4.Evaluates the basic concepts in the virtues.
5.Evaluates the basic concepts in the virtues.
Recommended or Required Reading
1.Ayten, A. (2022). Return to Virtue (Psychology and the Path to Happiness). İz Publishing. Bozkaya, T. (2023). Religious Education-Based Spiritual Counseling in the Context of Positive Psychology. Nobel Scientific Works. Özdoğan, Ö. (2010). Anonymous Lives, Ankara: Özdenöze Publications. Özdoğan, Ö. (2010). I Choose Happiness, Ankara: Özdenöze Publications, 2010. Peterson, C. & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification. Oxford University Press.
Weekly Detailed Course Contents
Week 1 - Theoretical
Citizenship
Week 2 - Theoretical
fairness
Week 3 - Theoretical
Leadership
Week 4 - Theoretical
Forgiveness and Compassion
Week 5 - Theoretical
Humility and Modesty
Week 6 - Theoretical
Humility and Modesty
Week 7 - Theoretical
Self Control
Week 8 - Theoretical
Appreciation of Beauty and Perfection
Week 9 - Theoretical
Gratitude
Week 10 - Theoretical
Hope
Week 11 - Theoretical
Humor
Week 12 - Theoretical
Spirit
Week 13 - Theoretical
Positive Thinking
Week 14 - Theoretical
Perseverance
Assessment Methods and Criteria
Type of AssessmentCountPercent
Midterm Examination1%40
Final Examination1%60
Workload Calculation
ActivitiesCountPreparationTimeTotal Work Load (hours)
Lecture - Theory143042
Assignment123036
Midterm Examination124024
Final Examination124024
TOTAL WORKLOAD (hours)126
Contribution of Learning Outcomes to Programme Outcomes
PÇ-1
PÇ-2
PÇ-3
PÇ-4
PÇ-5
PÇ-6
OÇ-1
5
4
3
4
4
3
OÇ-2
3
5
4
4
3
3
OÇ-3
2
3
5
4
4
4
OÇ-4
3
3
3
3
3
3
OÇ-5
3
3
4
4
4
3
Adnan Menderes University - Information Package / Course Catalogue
2026