Yale University’s most sought-after class, “Psychology and the Good Life,” taught by Psychology Professor Dr. Laurie Santos, has gained widespread acclaim for its insights into happiness and well-being. Recognizing the pressing need to address rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide among teenagers, Dr. Santos recently launched a free six-week version of the course on Coursera, specifically tailored for high school students. Titled “The Science of Well-Being for Teens,” the course is a response to the mental health challenges faced by adolescents in grades nine through twelve, aiming to equip them with the tools and knowledge to enhance their overall well-being.
In her groundbreaking course, Dr. Santos delves into the intricacies of happiness, challenging conventional notions and highlighting the cognitive biases that influence our understanding of what truly makes us happy. By making this course freely accessible to teenagers, she addresses a crucial gap in mental health education, providing young minds with the opportunity to cultivate skills for a happier and more fulfilling life. The initiative reflects a commitment to promoting mental well-being early on, with the hope that such knowledge can act as a preventive measure against the challenges many teens face in their formative years.
“The Science of Well-Being for Teens” not only brings cutting-edge psychological research to a wider audience but also underscores the potential impact of education in shaping a more resilient and content younger generation. By unravelling the mysteries of happiness and challenging ingrained beliefs about well-being, Dr. Santos offers teenagers a unique opportunity to navigate the complexities of adolescence with a better understanding of what contributes to a fulfilling life.
