The psychology and science of happiness: What does the research say?

Dubner, David (2013) The psychology and science of happiness: What does the research say? Counseling & Wellness: A Professional Counseling Journal, 4. pp. 92-107.

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Abstract

This paper surveys the scientific evidence regarding the nature of human happiness by drawing upon numerous studies in social science domains: namely psychology, but also related fields of business leadership and consulting, economics, and behavioral economics. Beginning with a definition and narrowing of the terminology, the review moves toward a brief sketch of measurement methods in the topic. Subjective well-being and happiness are then explored within the framework of psychological theories of happiness, including tension-reduction and goal attainment theories, activity and process theories, and genetic and biologic dispositional theory. Evolving views regarding hedonic adaptation as a key process underlying happiness is examined, as well as Lyubomirsky and Layous’ (2013) comprehensive model of happiness as a framework that encompasses the entire scope of psychological theories regarding happiness. Finally, the correlational evidence related to the various components of happiness is reviewed, concluding with the observation that although strong correlational evidence is linked to well-being, happiness is a concept that defies unequivocal causal attributions because it contains a complex amalgam of interrelated and bi-reciprocal variables.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Counseling & Wellness: A Professional Counseling Journal is published annually and dedicated to publishing refereed articles related to professional counseling in general and issues and counseling approaches that focus on wellness and personal adjustment. Publication priority was given to current Masters and Doctoral students from CACREP-accredited Counseling Programs with active Chi Sigma Iota Chapters. Counseling & Wellness: A Professional Counseling Journal is the official publication of the Beta Alpha Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota at Northern Arizona University.
Keywords:	wellness, psychology, science, happiness, biological disposition theory, goal attainment theory,
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Department/Unit:	Journals > Counseling and Wellness Journal
Date Deposited:	13 Jun 2016 22:18
URI:	http://openknowledge.nau.edu/id/eprint/2647

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