Ditch Toxic Positivity — Here’s What to Do Instead

What is toxic positivity? In a Healthline article on toxic positivity it was defined by clinical psychologist Jamie Zuckerman as, “The assumption, either by one’s self or others, that despite a person’s emotional pain or difficult situation, they should only have a positive mindset or ‘positive vibes’.”  

This type of response to other people’s pain has been shown to do more harm than good. In this CETL session, participants will look at other methods for supporting and responding to peers and students when difficult topics arise. 

Session Objectives: 

1. Define toxic positivity and explain the negative aspects of it. 
2. Provide tips for supporting peers and students when difficult subjects arise.