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Wize University Psychology Textbook > Interacting with Tough Content

Happiness

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Happiness


Subjective well-being is how scientists define happiness and satisfaction with life.

Subjective well-being is influenced by internal factors and external factors:
  • inborn temperament
  • personality
  • outlook
  • resilience
  • society you live in
  • quality of relationships
  • ability to meet basic needs
Subjective well-being is related to health - happier people tend to be healthier and live longer.

Over time, people adapt to both positive and negative events.

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Types of Happiness

Life Satisfaction - feeling generally satisfied about your quality of life.

Positive Feelings - enjoying life and loving other people.

Low Negative Feelings - having few worries and rarely feeling sad or angry.

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Money and Happiness

Once basic needs are met, increased income is not highly correlated with happiness.

Wealthy nations tend to have higher life satisfaction on average than poorer nations.


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Outcomes of High Subjective Well-Being

Happier people tend to have longer, healthier lives. Their immune systems tend to be stronger, and they develop fewer cardiovascular diseases. They are also more likely to engage in healthier behaviours.

Happier people tend to have more stable and rewarding relationships.

Happier people tend to be more productive and successful in their work lives.

Happy people are more likely to give back to their communities.

Practice: Happiness

Being able to afford your rent, utilities, and groceries is an _______ factor in subjective well-being.