The Science of the Positive framework is based upon the realization that ‘The Positive’ exists in ourselves, our communities and our cultures, and can be increased to improve health and safety. Both the Positive Community Norms approach to prevention and the new science of HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) are organized around the Science of the Positive  Cycle of Transformation which includes domains of Spirit, Science, Action, and Return. This interactive session will introduce these three key approaches to transforming community health.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the Science of the Positive framework
• Understand how the Positive Community Norms approach corrects misperceptions to impact behavior and increase health
• Learn how positive childhood experiences can mitigate the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on health outcomes and promote resilience

Presenter:

Jeffrey Linkenbach, EdD, MA is the Founding Director & Research Scientist at The Montana Institute, who has developed national award-winning science-based programs to change norms. He is one of the co-developers of HOPE – Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences, and serves as a Co-Investigator at the HOPE Center in the Tufts University Medical School. He is recognized for his pioneering development of the Science of the Positive Framework and the Positive Community Norms Approach which are being utilized by tribal, federal, state and local organizations to achieve positive change and transformation around challenging issues such as child maltreatment, substance abuse, suicide, traffic safety and community-engaged leadership.

Additional Resources: