Speaking of Psychology Which countries are happiest and why? With Lara Aknin, PhD
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May 29, 2024 Psychology professor Lara Aknin, PhD, editor of the World Happiness Report, discusses the factors affecting global happiness levels, including the decline in young Americans' happiness. She explores the correlation between generosity and happiness, the impact of financial security on well-being, and the importance of social relationships in shaping happiness levels across different countries.
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Measuring Happiness
- The World Happiness Report assesses happiness using the "Cantril Ladder".
- Respondents rate their current lives on a scale of 0-10, from worst to best possible life.
North American Happiness Dip
- Young adults in North America, especially the US, show lower happiness levels than older adults.
- This contrasts with the global trend of a U-shaped happiness curve, declining in middle age then rising again.
Eastern European Happiness
- Young adults in Central and Eastern Europe report higher happiness levels, unlike North America.
- This might be due to increased opportunities and optimism compared to previous generations.