Promoting human positive functioning through the integration of positive psychology and ageing psychology with design and engineering research

Abstract

The promotion of human positive functioning is nowadays a central objective of different areas of research. Positive Psychology has demonstrated, through numerous studies, in synergy with Design, that it can give life to effective projects for health and well-being in the different stages of life. An example, which will be explored in greater depth, concerns the emerging area of research on the relationship between frequenting art venues, particularly museums, and the psychological and social well-being of people of all ages. This result, which is linked to various individual psychological processes under study, is also the fruit of the construction of stimulating and appropriate environments for experiencing knowledge, personal growth, stress reduction, a field of research and intervention of Design and Engineering. A second area of research concerns the phenomenon of population ageing, which is defined by the WHO as a true "global challenge". It requires multidisciplinary research and intervention efforts, in order to promote active, independent and quality ageing for the greatest possible number of people. Even in this field of research, the synergy between Psychology in its various theoretical declinations, Design and Engineering can represent a valid response to this social challenge. Indeed, new areas of research demonstrate interesting connections between healthy lifestyles and cognitive, physical, and social functioning, highlighting the role of resources such as creativity in longevity. Research in Engineering and Design could provide new tools to improve or enhance these transversal skills and abilities.