This study aims to investigate the subjective representation of happiness components in a sample of persons from various age groups. 133 subjects living in Italy (71 females, 62 males) participated in a questionnaire study. Respondents were asked to think of happiness and to write down at least five components that made feel them happy. The realization of individual happiness was also measured by asking subjects to rate at what extent they attained each component in their life. The results showed that the subjective representation of happiness was organized around some prototypical components which referred mainly to individual interests of respondents. The categories of happiness components most frequently cited were family, health, money, friendship, love, work, success and self-actualization, and values. The frequency of citation of some of these components significantly varied according to socio-demographic characteristics of subjects. With regard to the realization of happiness, respondents perceived themselves only sufficiently happy. Level of overall happiness significantly varied according to age, sex, and marital status. The findings are discussed in the light of cultural, economic, and social characteristics of the Italian context.
What makes us happy? A study on the subjective representation of happiness components.
GALATI, Dario;
2006-01-01
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the subjective representation of happiness components in a sample of persons from various age groups. 133 subjects living in Italy (71 females, 62 males) participated in a questionnaire study. Respondents were asked to think of happiness and to write down at least five components that made feel them happy. The realization of individual happiness was also measured by asking subjects to rate at what extent they attained each component in their life. The results showed that the subjective representation of happiness was organized around some prototypical components which referred mainly to individual interests of respondents. The categories of happiness components most frequently cited were family, health, money, friendship, love, work, success and self-actualization, and values. The frequency of citation of some of these components significantly varied according to socio-demographic characteristics of subjects. With regard to the realization of happiness, respondents perceived themselves only sufficiently happy. Level of overall happiness significantly varied according to age, sex, and marital status. The findings are discussed in the light of cultural, economic, and social characteristics of the Italian context.
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