The Science of Happiness: Facts Backed by Research
Explore the data, embrace the joy—where science meets a flourishing life.
INTRODUCING
Positive Psychology
Are you ready to do some research?
Great, because we are living in the golden age of positive psychology! What is positive psychology you ask, simply put, it's the study of flourishing. In the past, psychology was dedicated to learning how to heal mental illness. But in the early 2000's some scientists began to ask, "is that enough?" They began the study of what makes life worth living.
These pioneering scientists shifted the focus from merely treating mental illness to exploring the elements that help people thrive—happiness, resilience, purpose, and well-being. This exciting field, known as positive psychology, examines questions like:
- What truly makes us happy?
- How can we cultivate lasting joy?
- What habits or mindsets contribute to a fulfilling life?
The answers to these questions are rooted in science, with studies from around the globe shedding light on how we can enhance our well-being. From practicing gratitude to fostering optimism, the insights from positive psychology are transforming the way we think about happiness.
Below, you’ll find fascinating facts about happiness, backed by research. Click the links to dive into the studies and see how science can help you lead a more joyful, meaningful life!
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Happy Facts...
Expanded Emotional Vocabulary and Well-Being
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that having a more nuanced vocabulary for positive emotions—like knowing the difference between feeling "joyful" and "content"—can lead to better emotional regulation, stronger relationships, and greater overall well-being. It turns out, being able to label your emotions more precisely doesn’t just help you handle challenges; it’s also a key ingredient for thriving in everyday life.
Source:Â Tan, T. Y., Wachsmuth, L., & Tugade, M. M. (2022). Emotional nuance: Examining positive emotional granularity and well-being. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 715966. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.715966
Optimism and Good Health
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that higher levels of optimism are associated with a longer lifespan and a greater likelihood of living beyond 90 years among women across diverse racial and ethnic groups. The research suggests that while lifestyle factors like regular exercise and healthy eating contribute to this association, they account for less than a quarter of the link between optimism and longevity, indicating that other factors may also play a significant role.
Source:Â , , , et al. Optimism, lifestyle, and longevity in a racially diverse cohort of women. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2022; 70(10): 2793-2804. doi:10.1111/jgs.17897Â
Positive Mood and Performance
Studies have shown that being in a positive mood significantly enhances learning, memory, and performance. Positive emotions promote cognitive flexibility and creativity, enabling better problem-solving and improved task outcomes compared to neutral or negative moods. This highlights the powerful role of emotions in driving not only happiness but also success in intellectual and professional pursuits.
Source: Tze Wei Liew, & Su-Mae Tan. (2016). The Effects of Positive and Negative Mood on Cognition and Motivation in Multimedia Learning Environment. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 19(2), 104–115. http://www.jstor.org/stable/jeductechsoci.19.2.104
Bryan, T., Mathur, S., & Sullivan, K. (1996). The Impact of Positive Mood on Learning. Learning Disability Quarterly, 19(3), 153–162. https://doi.org/10.2307/1511058
Laughter and Pain
Laughter has been shown to improve mood, enhance well-being, and increase pain tolerance by triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Research indicates that social laughter significantly elevates pain thresholds, and sustained laughter produces a dose-dependent increase in pain tolerance. These findings highlight laughter’s potential as a natural and enjoyable way to boost both mental and physical health.
How Age Affects Happiness
A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science reveals that the meaning of happiness shifts with age. Younger people link happiness to excitement, while older adults associate it with peacefulness and contentment, driven by a focus on the present over the future. Or, in the words of the experiment authors, the "experiments shows that the meaning of happiness is not fixed; instead, it systematically shifts over the course of one’s lifetime."