Popis: |
The purpose of this chapter is to introduce ways that the idea of a hero’s journey may foster resilience and thriving in the context of natural and technological disasters. First, resilience is defined as bouncing back from stress and thriving is defined as learning, growing, and benefiting from stress. Second, the focus on how positive emotions may build strengths and resources and the emphasis on optimal functioning are presented as contributions of positive psychology to resilience and thriving. Third, the modifiable variables and intervention techniques that may contribute to successful adaptation in the aftermath of disasters are discussed. Fourth, based on evidence for the value of written emotional disclosure and developing a coherent narrative, a case is made for focusing more on the role that stories may play in increasing resilience and thriving. Fifth, the idea of a “hero’s journey” is presented as a way to make the best use of stories to enable people to recover and move forward in the context of disasters. Finally, practical suggestions are provided for using the idea of a hero’s journey and relevant hero’s journey stories for fostering resilience and thriving in both individuals and communities. |