Are there multiple channels through which we connect with beauty and excellence?

This is a member only resource

Become a Member » Log In »
Are there multiple channels through which we connect with beauty and excellence?

This research answers the question whether there are multiple channels through which we connect with beauty and excellence and thus contributes to the understanding of the structure of appreciation. Two models were examined: the appreciation of beauty and excellence (ABE) model [Haidt J. & Keltner D. (2004). Appreciation of beauty and excellence [awe wonder elevation]. In C. Peterson & M.E.P. Seligman (Eds.). Character strengths and virtues (pp. 537–551). New York NY: Oxford University Press] and the engagement with beauty model [Diessner R. Solom R. Frost N.K. Parsons L. & Davidson J. (2008). Engagement with beauty: Appreciating natural artistic and moral beauty. The Journal of Psychology: Interdisciplinary and Applied 142 303–329]. Study 1 describes the development and initial validation of the ABE Test (ABET) which assesses the types of appreciation included in Haidt and Keltner’s (2004) model. In study 2 the ABE subscale of the Values In Action Inventory of Strengths [VIA-IS; Peterson C. Park N. & Seligman M.E.P. (2005). Assessment of character strengths. In G.P. Koocher J.C. Norcross & S.S. Hill III (Eds.) Psychologists’ desk reference (Vol. 3 pp. 93–98). New York NY: Oxford University Press] the Engagement with Beauty Scale (Diessner et al. 2008) and the ABET were included in a structural equation modeling analysis. Results suggested a new model encompassing the two previous ones and distinguishing between natural beauty artistic beauty and non-aesthetic goodness.

Citation: 
The Journal of Positive Psychology Vol. 7, No. 6, November 2012, 516–529

Become a Member

The IOC is a global community of coaches.

Join

Contact Us

  • Institute of Coaching
  • McLean Hospital
  • 115 Mill Street, Mail Stop 314
  • Belmont, MA 02478
  • [email protected]