The contours of positive human health. Psychological In- quiry, 1-28. Ryff, C.D., & Singer, B. (1998).

This article outlines an explicit operational formulation for positive health to be determined as a dynamic process of mental and physical wellbeing as opposed to a mere state free of ill health. The authors draw from philosophical theory in defining the key goods for positive health (having purpose in life and quality connections to others, and self-regard and mastery) and connects them to biology. The article advocates an essential shift in understanding the body in wellness as opposed to illness, and calls for higher scientific attention on the positive inner workings of emotions, quality life experiences and biological function in reaching true health.