Dr. Peterson has been at the University of Michigan since 1986. He conducts research on positive psychology: what makes life most worth living? His special focus is on strengths of character and positive traits like curiosity, hope, kindness, and teamwork that are associated with the life well lived. He is increasingly turning his attention to deliberate programs that encourage good character. He is the author of A Primer in Positive Psychology and a coeditor of the journal Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being.
Dr. Peterson received his doctorate in social and personality psychology from the University of Colorado and respecialized in clinical psychology as a postdoctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania. He has published more than 300 articles, chapters, and books, and is among the 100 most highly cited psychologists and psychiatrists in the world over the past 20 years.
Awards and Credentials
- Rackham Graduate School Distinguished Faculty Achievement Award, University of Michigan, 2008
- Reclaiming Youth International Circle of Courage Award, 2008
- Psychology Department Distinguished Alumnus Award, University of Illinois, 2008
- Max Hutt Lecturer, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 2007
- Thomas Hawkins Johnson Visiting Scholar, United States Military Academy, 2007
Related Links
Recommended Reading List
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- Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification.” Peterson, C., et al. (2004). Oxford/American Psychological Association.
- “Orientations to Happiness and Life Satisfaction: The Full Life Versus the Empty Life.” Peterson, C., et al. (2005). Journal of Happiness Studies, 6.
- “Positive Psychology Progress: Empirical Validation of Interventions.” Seligman, M. E. P., et al. (2005). American Psychologist, 60.
