Psyched Up about LIFE’s Psych Program

Dr. Peggy Gibert is a glass-half-full kind of person. That’s one reason she teaches at LIFE – the University’s emphasis on majors that explore the latest research and most effective strategies for maximizing human performance dovetails nicely with her expertise and research interests. With a doctorate and master’s in social psychology from the University of Georgia, Gibert studies the ways attitudes, behaviors, mood and self- esteem impact performance.

The architect of LIFE University’s new B.S. in psychology, Gibert is thrilled about the synergy between the new degree and existing majors in nutrition, sports health science, business and chiropractic. “There are so many ways this program interacts with our other majors – social psychologists deal with behavior, sports psychology, the psychology of health – all issues closely linked to human performance,” she says. She also sees a great fit with LIFE’s Eight Core Proficiencies – critical thinking skills, leadership and contemporary health philosophies are all woven throughout the psychology program.

Gibert “loves psychology” and how it can improve lives. That’s why she’s particularly proud that LIFE’s program reflects the most current thinking in the field of positive psychology. “For most of the history of the profession, psychology focused on mental illness, deficiency and the negative aspects of human personality,” Dr. Gibert explains. “Positive psychology is an emerging branch of the profession that draws on people’s strengths to motivate them to higher levels of performance.”

Positive psychologists are pioneering new research into optimal human functioning, providing a firm scientific foundation for the study of human happiness. “Just as LIFE’s health care majors are based on a vitalistic model of maintaining and enhancing physical health, the psychology major has a significant thrust in exploring the individual’s capacity for love, courage, forgiveness, wisdom and interpersonal connection. It also looks at institutions that encourage altruism, civility, responsibility, nurturance and tolerance. This is the exciting future of positive and social psychology and where so much research is being done today. Our students will be up to the minute in these fields,” she says.

The major has a decidedly strong focus on applied psychology. In fact, the degree includes a certificate in life coaching. “Our coursework is consistent with the American Psychology Association guidelines and we definitely prepare students for graduate work, but with a coaching certificate they also have marketable skills they can apply right out of undergrad.”  

Students in other majors at LIFE can also complete the coaching certificate. “We are seeing a lot of chiropractic, nutrition and sports health science students who want to master coaching skills they’ll use to help patients and clients reach their goals and comply with critical health regimens.”

As one of the most fervent coaches and supporters of LIFE students, Gibert encourages each to strive for higher levels of performance.

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