Final answer:
José's therapist likely adopted the positive activity theory from positive psychology, aiming to increase José's happiness through engaging in various fulfilling and social activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The therapist's recommendations for José, which include reading books, visiting friends, going bowling, doing the laundry, mowing the lawn, and eating meals with his partner, suggest an adoption of the positive activity theory. This theory is associated with positive psychology, a field focusing on improving well-being and happiness through engaging in positive activities and social connections. The aim is to increase José's level of utility, which in economic terms, refers to the level of satisfaction or happiness that a person experiences from their choices.
According to positive psychology, engaging in such positive activities can lead to improved mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. The recommendations align with activity theory and its notions that social engagement and maintaining an active lifestyle contribute to overall happiness, especially as people age. However, it acknowledges that not everyone has equal access to social opportunities and not everyone may find fulfillment in the same activities, suggesting personalization of activities that bring joy.