Iris Mauss

Iris Mauss, a psychology professor at UC Berkeley, dives into the intricate world of emotions and happiness. She explains the vital role of emotions in mental health and how they intertwine with cognition. The conversation tackles emotion regulation, highlighting cultural and gender differences. Mauss also discusses the paradox of seeking happiness, revealing how an obsession with happiness can lead to disappointment. Instead, she emphasizes finding joy through meaningful connections and emotional acceptance.

Psychologist Iris Mauss, who studies happiness at UC Berkeley, reveals why chasing happiness can often make it more elusive, stressing the value of emotional acceptance and social connections. Behavioral scientist Alison Wood Brooks from Harvard shares expert advice on improving conversations—like handling chatty or quiet partners and minimizing interruptions. They emphasize setting clear conversational goals and how embracing distress can lead to deeper relational bonds and greater contentment.