PSYCHOLOGY OF HAPPINESS
Elaborated & Exam-Oriented Notes (70 Marks Pattern)
MODULE 1: HAPPINESS
Meaning of Happiness:
Happiness refers to a subjective sense of well-being involving positive emotions, low negative emotions, and
life satisfaction. It is dynamic and varies across individuals and cultures.
Positive Affectivity (PA):
Positive Affectivity is the stable tendency to experience joy, enthusiasm, alertness, and curiosity. High PA
improves creativity, resilience, and social functioning.
Fredrickson’s Broaden-and-Build Theory explains that positive emotions broaden attention and build lasting
psychological and social resources.
Negative Affectivity (NA):
Negative Affectivity is the tendency to experience fear, anger, guilt, sadness, and worry frequently. High NA is
linked with stress and higher cortisol levels but also serves a protective function by promoting caution.
Causes of Happiness:
• Genetic factors: 40–50% happiness is genetically influenced (Lykken, 1999); set-point theory.
• Life circumstances: Income, education, and health influence happiness only up to basic needs (Easterlin
Paradox).
• Intentional activities: Gratitude, kindness, meditation, and exercise significantly enhance happiness.
Effects of Happiness:
Happiness improves immunity, increases longevity, enhances work performance, and strengthens
relationships.
Culture and Happiness:
Individualistic cultures emphasize achievement and independence, whereas collectivistic cultures emphasize
harmony and group well-being.
Cultural display rules regulate emotional expression.
Relationships and Happiness:
Relationships are the strongest predictor of happiness. Emotional support buffers stress.
The Harvard 75-year study shows that good relationships lead to long-term health and happiness.
Geography of Bliss:
National happiness depends on trust, equality, low corruption, welfare systems, healthcare, and freedom.
MODULE 2: HAPPINESS AND PHYSICAL ASPECTS
Mind–Body Connection:
Happiness results from interaction among biological, psychological, and social factors (biopsychosocial
model).
Physical Contributors:
• Exercise: Releases endorphins and improves mood; effective for mild depression.
• Nutrition: Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B and D support brain health.
• Sleep: Restorative sleep improves emotional regulation and reduces stress.
Elaborated & Exam-Oriented Notes (70 Marks Pattern)
MODULE 1: HAPPINESS
Meaning of Happiness:
Happiness refers to a subjective sense of well-being involving positive emotions, low negative emotions, and
life satisfaction. It is dynamic and varies across individuals and cultures.
Positive Affectivity (PA):
Positive Affectivity is the stable tendency to experience joy, enthusiasm, alertness, and curiosity. High PA
improves creativity, resilience, and social functioning.
Fredrickson’s Broaden-and-Build Theory explains that positive emotions broaden attention and build lasting
psychological and social resources.
Negative Affectivity (NA):
Negative Affectivity is the tendency to experience fear, anger, guilt, sadness, and worry frequently. High NA is
linked with stress and higher cortisol levels but also serves a protective function by promoting caution.
Causes of Happiness:
• Genetic factors: 40–50% happiness is genetically influenced (Lykken, 1999); set-point theory.
• Life circumstances: Income, education, and health influence happiness only up to basic needs (Easterlin
Paradox).
• Intentional activities: Gratitude, kindness, meditation, and exercise significantly enhance happiness.
Effects of Happiness:
Happiness improves immunity, increases longevity, enhances work performance, and strengthens
relationships.
Culture and Happiness:
Individualistic cultures emphasize achievement and independence, whereas collectivistic cultures emphasize
harmony and group well-being.
Cultural display rules regulate emotional expression.
Relationships and Happiness:
Relationships are the strongest predictor of happiness. Emotional support buffers stress.
The Harvard 75-year study shows that good relationships lead to long-term health and happiness.
Geography of Bliss:
National happiness depends on trust, equality, low corruption, welfare systems, healthcare, and freedom.
MODULE 2: HAPPINESS AND PHYSICAL ASPECTS
Mind–Body Connection:
Happiness results from interaction among biological, psychological, and social factors (biopsychosocial
model).
Physical Contributors:
• Exercise: Releases endorphins and improves mood; effective for mild depression.
• Nutrition: Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B and D support brain health.
• Sleep: Restorative sleep improves emotional regulation and reduces stress.
