Behind Toxic Positivity's Dark Side Toxic positivity has become a pervasive phenomenon in modern culture, fueled by social media and popular self help literature.
It's a mindset that demands individuals suppress their negative emotions, focusing solely on the positive aspects of life.
While its intention may seem benevolent – to promote happiness and well being – its effects can be far more insidious. What is Toxic Positivity? Toxic positivity arises from a distorted understanding of optimism.