Understanding psychological flourishing across the lifespan: an integrative review of theory and evidence.

Psychological flourishing is increasingly recognised as a multidimensional construct within contemporary positive psychology. It extends beyond the mere absence of psychopathology to encompass the active presence of positive functioning across emotional, cognitive, social, and existential dimensions. Despite decades of theoretical development and empirical investigation, a coherent integrative account of how flourishing unfolds, varies, and can be cultivated across the entire human lifespan remains elusive. This integrative review synthesizes theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence pertaining to psychological flourishing from early childhood through late adulthood. Drawing on major theoretical paradigms-including Seligman's PERMA model, Keyes's Mental Health Continuum, VanderWeele's comprehensive framework, and Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the article examines the distinctive flourishing challenges and opportunities at each developmental stage. Evidence from longitudinal and cross-sectional studies is integrated with intervention research to identify both universal and stage-specific determinants of flourishing. Implications for research, clinical practice, education policy, and public health are discussed.