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Chapter 11: Enhancing Happiness

Additional resources for this chapter

instructor material

DOI:

10.1891/9780826132833.0011

Abstract

This chapter brings together topics discussed throughout the book to examine ways we might be able to increase happiness. It first discusses the effectiveness of using positive psychology to increase individual happiness. The chapter then examines some Positive Psychology interventions (PPIs) directed toward institutions such as schools or workplaces. It also examines socio-structural approaches that drive toward the intersection of economics, government, public policy, psychology, and other social sciences. The chapter explores institutional-level approaches to increasing happiness by changing institutions with the hope that these changes will have widespread effects for individuals. The PPIs offer effective ways we can improve our own happiness by changing the way we think about events and the goals we choose to pursue. Rethinking social policies regarding taxes, social welfare systems, family and work balance, and so on, offers the opportunity to improve the happiness of our society as a whole.