Browsing by Subject "Lycka"

Aims. Happiness is arguably the most desirable goal in life. Since ancient times happiness has been a subject of interest for scientists as well as laymen. Everyone knows what happi-ness is, but few know anything scientific about it. The aim of this study is to deeper insight into what science today can tell us about happiness. I approach this from a psychological perspec-tive, where the field of positive psychology promote the so-called good life and how a person can reach his full potential. In this thesis I present the leading theories within positive psychol-ogy, in the purpose of gathering insight as to what happiness really is from a psychological point of view, what effects this happiness, and whether we ourselves can have a positive in-fluence on our happiness. Methods. The method I used in this study is an integrative review and literacy-describing overview. I have systematically gathered and examined scientific literacy on the subject of happiness and positive psychology, whereafter I have done an understanding-oriented analy-sis and mapped out the conclusions. Based on previous studies in positive psychology and happiness, I describe what we scientifically today know about happiness. In the material used, I have chosen to focus on publications and studies made by three renown scientists within positive psychology; Martin Seligman, Ed Diener and Sonja Lyubomirsky. Conclusions. Happiness, despite its ambiguity, can be discussed scientifically. One can also empirically measure happiness, in the form of subjective well-being. Happiness can be compared through subjective evaluations, often with the help of self-evaluating surveys. It is also possible to measure subjective well-being in real time, through ESM methods. Using these methods, it has been possible to measure and compare subjective well-being on national scales, and present a large number of conclusions. Happy people have a lot of benefits in life. Studies have been able to point out several positive consequences of being happy, as well as specific relationships for what impacts one's happiness. The explaining factors for happiness are three-fold, about half is are genetically bound, 10-20% are due to living conditions, while 40% of the variation in subjective well-being can be explained by attitudes and intentional activities. By observing and adapting one´s style of approach, one can learn to become happier. Through the execution of a number of proposed happiness-promoting activities, one can consciously promote their happiness.