Attendance Policy

Expectations for Civility and Respect

Embracing Renewal — In Ourselves, Our Field, and Our Community

At IPPA 2025, we come together under the theme of Renewal — an invitation to refresh our thinking, our connections and the global community of positive psychology. This spirit of renewal extends beyond the scientific program; it calls us to foster an environment where every participant feels valued, respected and inspired to contribute.

We are committed to creating a Congress culture rooted in respect, inclusion and civility. This means engaging with one another in a manner that upholds the dignity and worth of all people, and modelling the very principles of positive psychology that we seek to advance.

As we exchange ideas, challenge perspectives and engage in lively debate, we do so with an openness to learning and a spirit of generosity. We recognise that genuine renewal happens when dialogue is constructive, compassionate and inclusive.

We also acknowledge the rich diversity of this international community, and the variety of cultural norms around communication and interaction. We encourage all participants to approach these differences with curiosity, humility and respect.

When behaviours occur that do not align with these expectations, constructive and compassionate feedback will be provided, to maintain a safe and positive space for all.

By embodying these principles, we can ensure that the Congress not only advances the field of positive psychology, but also models the thriving, respectful and inclusive world we hope to create.

Civility – Operational Definitions

Participants are encouraged to:

1. Think mindfully before speaking
2. Distinguish facts from opinions and express both clearly and respectfully
3. Seek common ground and foster mutual understanding
4. Express disagreement in a collegial, constructive and professional manner
5. Listen with openness and without hostility
6. Value and respect the diversity of perspectives, cultures and experiences represented at the Congress
7. Engage with a spirit of collegiality, curiosity and renewal
8. Offer compassionate and constructive feedback when addressing behaviour that is demeaning, disrespectful or discriminatory
9. Contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all
10. Frame corrective feedback to support positive and respectful engagement

Incivility – Operational Definitions

Behaviours that do not align with the spirit of this Congress include:

1. Interrupting or speaking over others
2. Making personal criticisms or character attributions
3. Using language that is aggressive, sarcastic or demeaning
4. Dominating discussions by speaking too often or for too long
5. Demonstrating disrespect through non-verbal behaviours (e.g. eye-rolling, loud sighs)
6. Offering false praise or disingenuous comments (e.g. “With all due respect…” used dismissively)