14 DAY TRIAL // The old strategy of positive psychology may not necessarily be the most effective at promoting long-term relationships, a new study finds. The data suggests that honesty (even when accompanied by short-term anger) can yield much more positive results than optimism, forgiveness, and kindness.
Previously, researchers believed that a positive attitude is what helped partners move on with their relationships, even after one of them carried out a major transgression, such as cheating. The new study shows that angry, bluntly-honest conversations may be necessary for the long-term success of couples.
This connection between positive psychology and well-being was analyzed by a team of experts from the Florida State University, which was led by investigator James McNulty, PhD, PsychCentral reports.
“I continued to find evidence that thoughts and behaviors presumed to be associated with better well-being lead to worse well-being among some people – usually the people who need the most help achieving well-being,” he says.