Positive Evolutionary Psychology - Glenn Geher

Harnessing Our Ancestral Mind: Positive Evolutionary Psychology with Glenn Geher

In an enlightening podcast episode, Glenn Geher discusses the concept of "Positive Evolutionary Psychology", blending insights from evolutionary biology with psychological practices to enhance our understanding of human behavior. Geher, a pioneer in this field, offers a unique perspective on applying evolutionary principles to modern psychological issues, advocating for a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

Geher introduces the notion of "Paleopsychology", akin to the Paleo diet but for mental health, suggesting that just as our bodies evolved to digest certain foods, our minds evolved to behave in ways that once served us well but may now be maladaptive. Key philosophies include:

• Evolutionary Functionality: Understanding that behaviors such as anxiety or aggression were once adaptive responses can help us manage them more effectively today.
• Integrative Approach: Merging positive psychology with evolutionary psychology to address not only how we fail but also how we can succeed and thrive.

Practical Strategies and Advice

• Reframing Mental Health: Viewing psychological traits through an evolutionary lens to better understand and address them in therapy and self-improvement.
• Adaptive Strategies: Encouraging the use of adaptive strategies that align with our evolutionary predispositions to enhance personal and social well-being.
• Community and Social Bonds: Fostering stronger community ties and social networks as evolutionarily beneficial for mental health.

Supporting Evidence

Geher references a broad range of evolutionary theories and psychological research to support his approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding our ancestral past to improve our psychological future.

Personal Application

Geher applies these principles in his own research and teaching, using evolutionary psychology as a framework to explore and explain human behavior comprehensively.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

Suggestions include:

• Mindfulness and Reflection: Regular practices that encourage reflection on one's behavior through an evolutionary perspective.
• Social Connectivity: Engaging in community activities and building strong social networks to leverage the evolutionary benefits of group cohesion.
• Educational Outreach: Educating the public about the benefits of viewing psychological issues from an evolutionary standpoint.