Research Projects

Our work encompasses basic and applied research aimed at presenting scientific methods for well-being enhancement. We investigate culturally specific emotions, virtues, and strengths from the perspectives of culture and evolution, seeking to answer questions such as “What helps people heal and perceive their lives as being good?” and “What kinds of societies and cultures enable individuals to live more easily?” Through these investigations, we aim to contribute to the development of environments that support human flourishing.

Very Japanese emotion and its function

This line of research focuses on the functions of culturally specific emotions in Japan, such as low-arousal positive emotions (e.g., calmness [落ち着く：Ochitsuku]) and soothing (癒し：iyashi) and mixed emotions that blend positive and negative elements.

Measuring Virtues and Strengths Unique to Japan

We develop methods to measure virtues and character strengths unique to the Japanese context—such as reigi (courtesy), giri (social obligation), wa (harmony), and michi (the way or path)—to examine how they operate within Japanese culture and in cross-cultural contexts.

Developing Psychotherapeutic Approaches Based on Japanese Cultural Experiences

Drawing from aesthetic and embodied experiences rooted in Japanese culture—such as fireworks, nature, tea ceremony, and martial arts—we aim to extract elements that contribute to psychological and physical healing. These are then integrated into digital tools (e.g., virtual reality, mobile applications) to develop innovative methods for enhancing well-being.

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