The Complete State Model of Flourishing
Dr. Corey Keyes, Professor of Sociology at Emory University, revolutionized our understanding of mental health with his "Complete State Model." His research, published extensively in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior and American Psychologist, demonstrates that true flourishing isn't simply the absence of mental illness—it requires the active presence of positive mental health.
Academic Foundation: This framework integrates multiple streams of research including Seligman's PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment), Fredrickson's broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions, and Keyes' three-dimensional model of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Together, these represent over 50 years of empirical research on human thriving.
Key Research Findings:
- Only 17% of adults flourish: Keyes' research shows most people are "languishing"—not mentally ill, but not thriving either
- Flourishing is protective: Those who flourish show significantly lower rates of mental illness, chronic disease, and mortality
- Flourishing is cultivable: Both removing barriers and building positive capacities can shift people from languishing to flourishing
- Dual approach is essential: Addressing only negatives OR only positives is insufficient—both are required
Why It Works: UBFlourishing2's unique structure mirrors the science: Theme 1 (Overcoming the Negative) addresses the barriers that prevent flourishing, while Theme 2 (Building on the Positive) cultivates the 44 positive capacities that constitute genuine thriving. This comprehensive dual approach produces measurable, sustainable improvements across all dimensions of well-being.