Too Much of a Good Thing? The Psychology of Rewards

How can we harness the power of rewards to improve our mental health and well-being? Is there a fine line between rewards that are beneficial and those that are harmful to our lives? This course examines the complex world of rewards. We explore different categories of rewards (for example, social, monetary, and natural/primary) and uncover how they can be effectively implemented to enhance well-being and mental health. We also discuss the consequences of unbalanced responses to rewards, such as addiction, binge eating, and substance use disorders. Drawing on research from psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics, this course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the role rewards play in shaping our lives and our mental health. Throughout the course, we grapple with the delicate balance between constructive and destructive responses to rewards and how this balance affects our pursuit of a fulfilling life.