If someone went around the street asking people what they wanted the most out of life, the most frequent answers would be peace, happiness, love, etc. Well, there might be that one person who answers ‘a tonne load of money’. Just ignore that answer for now and let us focus on happiness. Positive psychology is relatively a very young field. But, there has been intense research in areas related to happiness, life satisfaction and self-esteem. Happiness is a very common word. But nothing is simple when it comes to psychology. Here are 5 surprising facts about the psychology of Happiness.
1. Doing a good deed triggers a high in the brain.
Have you ever noticed how elevated your mood becomes after you do something nice for someone else? Studies have shown that when we do something like hold the door for a stranger, donate to a charity, or bring a meal to a friend, our brain triggers feelings of reward. Like with any other high, these feelings then encourage the brain to put more good into the world.
2. Happy people are more likely to have happy children.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota conducted a fascinating study in which they observed multiple pairs of identical twins. They found that at any one time, approximately 50% of the twins’ happiness had a genetic correlation. Ultimately, the study concluded that our happiness, and by extension other feelings, are partially inherited.
3. Smelling the rose actually makes you happier.
Interestingly, a study done by Rutgers University found that floral scents trigger the brain and increase feelings of happiness. Specifically, those in the study who were exposed to the smell of flowers were three times likelier to exhibit feelings of happiness than those who were not exposed.
4. Those who are paid by the hour are usually happier.
Though it might come as a surprise, those who earn an hourly wage are generally happier than those who receive a salary. At least, that is what a study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin concluded. Though nothing could be proven, the researchers who conducted the study hypothesized that it could be because hourly employees tend to be more aware of just how long it takes to earn their money, and therefore are able to value their time better than their salaried peers.
5. Certain foods incite happy feelings.
Though the effects aren’t permanent, certain foods have been found to incite temporary euphorias. Chicken, milk, and nuts all contain tryptophan. When we consume tryptophan, our brains begin to produce serotonin, a chemical known for inciting feelings of happiness. Similarly, eating chocolate spurs the brain into releasing endorphins, chemicals that make us feel happy.
