On Monday 8 December, Island VI Form psychology students welcomed Dr Delphine Nguyen (PhD) and her team from Solent University for an engaging and interactive session on the science behind what makes us happy.

Throughout the workshop, students investigated key psychological approaches through lively discussions and hands-on activities. They examined the complexity of defining happiness by comparing biological factors, including neurotransmitters and genetics, with cognitive influences such as thought patterns and their impact on behaviour. They also explored the humanistic perspective, considering how personal achievements and self-fulfilment contribute to well-being.

The visit offered valuable insight into the breadth of psychology as a discipline, highlighting its applications in areas such as education, clinical practice and occupational settings. Many students left the session feeling inspired, with several expressing a keen interest in pursuing a future career in psychology.