Positive psych final

Describe 'flow' and the research Csikszentmihalyi used to study it

"An experience of merging one's consciousness with an event in the present moment" or " the experience of complete absorption in the present moment" Research showed that people experience this when working instead of engaging in leisure activities. It can lead to optimal experiences

Differentiate individualistic from collectivist cultures

Focus on independence, choice, personal rights, self reliance, "person buiding theme" , lives up by their boots straps Focus on interdependence, whats good and responsible for the group, cooperation and harmony is important

Tell the story of 4 of the products with good design outlined in the Reading.

GUI- Early apple computers required users to know commands in order to operate. This was advanced to drop down menus containing the options so instead of memorizing the commands, one could choose out of the options. They also added pictures called icons and invented the mouse. This is called "Graphical User Interface" and was adopted by all computer manufacturers Fender Stratocaster- Leo Fender wanted to make a user friendly electric guitar, so he talked to musicians and attempted various designs in his lab. He considered the complaints of musicians and designed a comfortable, practical design Reach Toothbrush- There was one toothbrush design prior to manufacturers researching what the most common dental concerns were, which was individuals getting to the hard to reach places inside the back of their teeth which resulted in plaque buildup. They came up with a smaller, angled toothbrush that improved sales and dental hygiene. Kitchen appliances- The four burner stove was designed so that the knobs indicating which controlled which burner was confusing. The makers changed the knob placement so that it corresponded to the burner placement. The bottom mount fridge is different from the traditional model of freezer above the fridge. A new model was introduced with the freezer on the bottom and the fridge above so that adults can open the door and wont have to stoop to see in, as it is at eye level.

According to your readings, what are three things we should do for restoration?

Get between 7-8 hour of sleep a night. Its the golden amount of sleep and outside that number it contributes to high chances of morbidity and mortality risks. Practice deep relaxation exercises at least 20 minutes, twice a day. This reduces stress hormone levels, blood pressure, fatigue, headaches, insomnia and increases energy. Meditate as an alternative to deep relaxation twice a day for 20 minutes. Reduces chronic pain, improve immunity, increases the volume of cerebral gray matter, and decreases age related cognitive functions

Describe 4 characteristics of good places to work

Give autonomy- personal control leading to intrinsic motivation Variety- people don't like repetitive and boredom Supervisors -people want support, a safe environment, given guidance and clear feedback Expectations/ tools- clear objectives

Explain how employers can make office environments more conducive to productivity and employee happiness. Describe one research study to support this

Green plants and access to windows with a view of greenery. This concept is confirmed by Dr Tina Cade, associate professor of horticulture in the department of agriculture at Texas State University. Published int he 2008 issue of HortScience. The comparison is with office workers in cubicles with no outside views or plants surrounding them.

Describe Babyak's research on the use of exercise to treat depression

Major depressed adults are split into 3 groups. One group was given strictly anti depressants. Second group was given 4 months of aerobics 3x a week and the third group was given both. There mood was assessed before and immediately after. The results were significantly improved after three months but during 6 month assessment, there was a 38% relapse rate in the meds only group, Both meds and exercise 31% relapse and in the just exercise group 8%. This was because the exercise group released neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine and exercise breathing triggers relaxation response and causes less anxiety.

What is gamification and give 2 examples.

Making an activity more gamy- adding more levels

Is more consumption better? Explain

No. It causes an emptiness (psychological reasons) when we fill the void with stuff instead of meanings and purpose- there is less involvement with life. Due to social insecurity, people are replacing stuff for confidence and social skills.

Name and explain 2 'orientations' people can have to their religion

Orientations to time- Western cultures value certain strengths such as hope, optimism, self efficacy reflect future- oriented thinking. Eastern cultures values the strength of looking backward and recognizing the wisdom of elders.

Why is TV such a popular leisure pursuit?

People like it. It helps as a distraction, escape and is entertainment

What are the effects on our thinking when exposed to money cues?

People thought about money and experienced higher perseverance and self confidence. however, it makes them less social and helpful. It shifted them towards self sufficiency and independence- not good.

Name and explain 5 of the benefits from religion (active ingredients) discussed in class. IOW Describe five factors that religions provides that explains its correlation to happiness

People who are religious are healthier, live longer, are more tolerant, more forgiving, have higher education, money, SWB, less drugs and crime. Explanations are due to social connection and support, learned behaviors, kindness towards others are the basic principles, sense of identity, there is an experience of ritual, existential comfort.

Explain the Nordic advantage and how they seem to have achieved it.

The Nordic countries are top scorers in any measure in the best countries in the world. This is due to government policies encouraging both socialist and capitalist values. This model is called "flexicurity". Individuals enjoy cradle to grave support, health care, education, retraining, and other unemployment benefits. Corporations are supported by low corporate tax, new businesses are encouraged, the environment, property rights and stable governments, natural resources are factored

Explain income disparity and 4 social indicators it is correlated with. Why does it seem to have this impact?

When there is a unequal gap in income that is being distributed within society. Quality of life ,living conditions, social support, child outcomes.

What is sitting disease and what can you do about it?

When we sit too much. Its strongly associated with physical problems such as cancer, diabetes and heart problems. You can exercise or engage in NEAT.

When does money buy happiness?

When you spend it on others life satisfaction goes up. If you spend it with friends, there is a temporary burst of joy and gives autonomy and control. Problems are obsessing over money, factors are social comparisons.

What is meant by a good 'job fit'?

Consistent with your values, strengths and skills, something you enjoy and gives you the opportunity for flow

Explain the five steps for social improvement outlined in class.

1) Architecture- should be functional and beautiful 2) Nature- Biofelia (love for natural things) has restorative effects, offers privacy, improves air quality 3) Movement- convenient and effective roads, paths and rails 4) Ideal zoning- how we geographically place zones, random areas and stores. Traditional way of zoning is segregating residential, commercial and industrial. The downside is driving. Best to have neighborhoods where you work, shop, live and play in the same area.

Name and explain the 5 levers we can use. For each, explain one thing you are not currently doing but could do to pull that lever.

1) Change your mind- (cognitive lever) Using our mind to influence our SWB. The ability to reason, plan and remember. At this point I am barely surviving but not flourishing in regards to thinking of ways to overcome obstacles 2) Foster your friendships- (social lever) Working together to meet our social needs- I need to make free time to go out and do things with people. I also need to be more assertive with my needs within my current friendships 3) Build your body- (biological lever) Being physically healthy by exercising and moving to keep it that way.- I am certainly not doing this. I am spending too much time on my butt studying 4) Find Flow- (behavioral lever) Finding what you love to do 5) Pursue your purpose (motivational lever) Live an engaged life and find what is important to you

What are four things that turn an activity into leisure?

1) Fulfilled needs for autonomy 2) Allowed enjoyment of family life 3) Provided for relaxation 4) Offered an escape from routine

The authors of your text suggest 7 ingredients of the 'Happiness Recipe' Select 5 and for each explain what you have done or still could do to include it in your life.

1) Have direction: Important goals and values. We need to have values that we care about that are worth working for. This will gain satisfaction fro working on something we care about. Also, engage in a meaningful experience 2) Strong and supportive relationships- others people are crucial for our happiness. We find meaning, comfort and entertainment from relationships. We all need people to experience love with one another to have psychological wealth 3) Material sufficiency- In order to meet our physical needs we need to have enough. Happiness alone cant do this for humans, although to be happy it is important to be healthy and vice versa 4) Cultivation the spiritual emotions- Increases our well being by increasing nurturing, compassion, and connection to others and nature. Aids with psychological well being as it shows us something larger than ourselves 5) inborn temperament- Sometimes happiness comes naturally to people, but they still need to work to fulfill that potential. Those that are not born with this will have to be more effortful at gaining happiness.

Explain the four qualities of a flourishing society described in class

1) Income- there are two main threat fluctuations in employment and old age and retirement. the solutions to this are employment insurance and old age security 2) Work/employment programs- welfare to work, apprenticeship programs, laws to reduce becoming unemployed 3) Family- programs promote good parents, compulsory parenting courses, high quality daycare, policy in workplace 4) Community- Well knit communities, non-transient, trust eachother, bylaws that support societies.

What is the relationship between having children and happiness?

1) It has to be right for you, you are aware and youv'e been prepared. Best way to eliminate forecasting is to rent kids 2) Good and bad, but if in it for hedonistic reasons then it wont work 3) Daily joys, not going to work and meaning and purpose come from raising a family

Describe the three ways discussed in class that we can 'create the best job'.

1) Job crafting- adding to or altering the nature of your work to fit ones talents, values and interests 2) Perception shifting- basically re-framing and altering how you look at things 3)?

What can we do to reduce insomnia

1) Maintain regular sleep cycle 2) Avoid caffeine 3) Don't eat 4) Maintain regular activity during the day 5) Try to remove distractions in bed

Describe the 5 suggestions made by Gottman for investing in relationships?

1) Make time- talk a lot by committing to put aside time or rearrange your schedule or cut out media time to express gratitude and appreciation to each other 2) Express admiration, appreciation, and affection- for every negative statement or behaviour, criticizing, nagging, and lecturing you have to show five positive ones. Show gratitude directly and weekly, write out admiration's of each-other, write about a good time in your relationship, consider a memorable event where your partner upset you and then explain why they may have done that, and write down goals and beliefs that the partners share. 3) Capitalize on good fortune- taking delight in your relationships windfalls and successes while actively and constructively responding with interest and enthusiasm 4) Manage conflict- by fighting differently. Use friendly humor and expressing affection or saying something like "I see your point" 5) Share an inner life- Shared rituals, rituals, dreams and goals underlies thriving relationships. Honor and respect each others dreams and interests, even if you don't share them all

Describe four innovations implemented by Jamie Lerner in Curatiba Brazil

1) Noticed a clogged downtown, the plan was to widen streets. the idea to address these problems and to prioritize people over cares so mayor shut roads down and didn't tell anyone. 2) Created a pedestrian mall; street of flowers 3) transportation was created so you pay to get on the tube then when the bus comes you walk on, saves time and congestion. That was non subsidized. 4) within city there is 4x the recommended park space, farmers with sheep grazed the grass and poor people in the slums were told if they cleaned/ recycled they would get food from farmers

Describe 4 factors influencing friendships from the Hadad reading.

1) Propinquity- How physically near we are to the other person. The closer they are, the more likely you'll be friends with that person 2) Similarity- People tend to like people that are like us in terms of values and basic worldviews 3) Self disclosure- the ability to reveal more and more about themselves as the relationship progresses with emotional self disclosure being the most intimate. There is a balance of too much emotion to soon which puts the person in the position of a personal intimacy that may be inappropriate and not getting any feeling disclosure from the other person resulting in a feeling of not being trusted and valued 4) Active listening- taking the focus off ourselves and our responses and pay attention to what and how the other person is saying, and any non verbal signals. Using clarifying questions, paraphrasing to understand and summarizing the meaning and emotion of what was heard

What are four things to do/consider when creating a solution to address a social problem

1) Research the problem- obstacles to change, party involved and the impact 2) Create solution- work with others, brainstorm, look for an existing solution from a different time or part of the world 3) Communication- getting the word out and contacting policy holders. Creativity has to inspire and get their attention 4) Implementation- Put in in motion, monitor and revise if needed

Explain 5 actions we can engage in to foster our relationships

1) Shared activities- builds bonds, have conversations such as reunion conversations. Gender differences is men do activities and women converse. 2) Physical contact- hugs, kisses, pats. human beings need touch, it is physically essential and beneficial for mental health and survival 3) bids for attention- subtle actions designed to get attention from another person. How we respond to these bids for attention is important for friendship maintenance and growth, it has to be respective, engaging and content proves that youv'e heard them. 4) Listening- poor is attacking, ambushing, stage hog, pseudo and advice giving effective is interested, paying attention, non verbal smiles, nodding, eye contact, paraphrasing to show it was processed and asking relevant and sensitive questions 5) Speaking- poor is stonewalling, saying nothing, stage hogging, contempt, criticism, defensiveness effective is speaking using an assertive message ( honest, clear and respectful) Acknowledges their needs, use "i" statements, use appropriate self disclosure (message has to match the intimacy of the relationship) gratitude expression, saying thank you, complimenting their positive qualities on a regular basis, humor, teasing.

Name and describe the three different perspectives Amy Wrzesnniewski said we could have on our work

1) a job- in it for the money and the attitude is it's a chore 2) career- means to the end, its a better attitude, a role for better advancement, status and more money, something you enjoy by no big spark 3) a calling- something you were meant to do, something you love, has intrinsic motivation, important, exciting and challenging, helps with self identity.

Explain 3 trends in the frequency with which people pursue leisure activities over the last 50 years

1) reading and socializing has declined 2) tv viewing has increased, computer use has skyrocketed 3) less physical activity

What are 5 benefits of having a close relationship?

1)Belonging- from family and friends, important for our identity, sense of security comfort and confidence knowing family is there for you. This allows you to go out and try things and feel safe to go to home base. 2)Positive emotions- fun, teasing, laughing, joy, excitement, gratitude, love, elevation, inspiration by seeing others accomplishments. 3)Help- You get direct help with life challenges, move, drive us to the hospital, social support and emotional help by listening and reassuring, encouraging and complimenting 4)Meaning- It gives others meaning when you are focused on others, connecting, people on their deathbed wish they had spent more time with friends and family 5) Stimulation-Others expose us to other interests. Its a richer life spending it with others. Even when we have nothing to say, we still talk.

Name and briefly describe a central principle behind 3 Eastern religions/philosophies

1)Confucianism- Strive to make wise decisions based on the virtues of Humanity, Duty to treat others well, Etiquette and sensitivity to others feelings, Wisdom, and Truthfulness. 2) Taoism-Live according to the Tao, translated as "the way" which is the natural, not effortful, practice of living the virtues Humanity, Justice, Temperance, and Propriety. 3) Buddhism- Seeking the good of others and the teaching that suffering is a part of being and is brought on by human desires. Nirvana is the state of being freed from a desire for anything.

What are 5 urban design innovations brought about by Vancouver in its 'living first' strategy?

1)Guidelines for housing and condos 2) lane ways on alleys 3) zoning that encouraged and required schooling 4) Transportation was promoted, cycling, walking , skytrain resulted in less care 5) Incorporated nature, public spaces and park requirements such as public green space for a certain amount of population

What are 4 barriers social change agents may face when trying to affect positive social change? Describe a personal example of two of these you've seen in your life.

1)Ignorance- the public and policy makers don't know. This is different than stupid. Solution is education 2)Issue fatigue/ apathy- so many problems, they are tired. Try to tap into the good aspects and motivate the positive emotions 3) Tradition- extensive infrastructure supporting the status quo- businesses, corporations, all set up to do things a certain way. The solution is to start slowly and build gradually, be patient and persistent 4) Nay sayers- "it wont work, itll never happen" criticize. Solution is to ask them more and then become an ally

What are the benefits of gardening?

1)It is a moderate form of exercise 2) benefits from seeing things grow 3) natural things make gratification 4) stress reduction 5) therapeutic when working with your hands

Describe four benefits of companion animals

1)Positive emotions- joy by doing things with them, they do funny things, greeting and play, security (dogs smell and hear things) , eye contact, love 2)Social contacts 3)Sensory stimulation- contact and comfort, petting a dog reduces stress in both pet and human 4) Health- lower psychological stress, exercise. Research has shown that pet owners are the healthiest group, in elderly with less heart attacks, less dr's visits and faster recovery in children. Mental health improves, less anxiety, depression loneliness. Helps with AIDS. Therapy dogs.

What are two of the main points made by the authors of your text when they point out the 'Bad News' about relationships?

1)There is a dark side to empathy as we make ourselves vulnerable to pain from others. It can be overwhelming, cause guilt and sadness when those close to you are going through something terrible, or you cause them pain. 2)We can be allergic to people like we can be allergic to pollen and it cause your nerves and starts to have an cumulative effect that causes sensitivity to the relationship and a physical reaction

Asian countries (Japan, Korea, China) typically report lower levels of subjective well-being than Western countries. Explain 4 reasons why

1)They prefer to be happy introverts 2) they saw Jesus as less happy 3) 4)

Are companion animals popular? Explain

60& of American households have pets. There are 3 million pets in the world. 70% of dog owners let dogs sleep on bed. 83% consider animals part of their family. 50-90% of pet owners report singing and dancing for their pets.

What is so fascinating about Roseto Pennsylvania ?

A community that was made up of migrated individuals from Italy had health benefits from a rich, close social network. They lived visited and worked from people in the town. The heath benefits were due to the social structure of the town

Explain affluenza

A harmful or unbalanced relationship with money or its pursuit. Defines it as "a painful, contagious, socially transmitted condition of overload, debt, anxiety, and waste resulting from the dogged pursuit of more

What are the benefits of exercise on the mind, body and feelings

Add years to your life, improve self esteem, enhance mental performance, boost mood and help you sleep. Increase breathing and heart rate which enhances blood flow, energy production, and waste removal. Stimulates the release of brain- derived neurotropic factor which supports the growth of new neurons Increases the amount and capacity of blood vessels in the brain. Boost serotonin, a neurotransmitter that fights depression. Normalizes sleep patterns Improves self efficacy ad sense of accomplishment Enhance resilience to stress over time

What are the costs of sleep deprivation

Adverse effects on performance, response times, accuracy, attention, and concentration. Lack of quality sleep has been associated with quality of life measures such as social functioning, mental and physical health and even early death. It has been correlated with obesity, increases in smoking and alcohol use, inactivity, inflammation and hearth disease, and blood sugar imbalances. Lack of sleep puts your body under additional stress which triggers stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol

What is the social myth regarding leisure? What is the more accurate understanding?

All free time is enjoyable. The reality is people get bored with free time and deciding what to do. This leads to "leisure distress"

There are 3 characteristics of the situation that seem to bring about flow. Describe a personal example of where you experienced flow and how each of these three attributes was present.

Attributes that trigger it is clear, specific goals, immediate feedback and just manageable tasks at the limit of your ability. Less capability= boredom. Higher capability = anxiety

Describe the life satisfaction ratings of different marital statuses.

Being married is the top for happiness, then cohabiting, then single, then divorced. Separated and widowed are on par for the least happiest.

Why do we consume? (and sometimes over consume) Describe the 'emptiness', 'insecurity' and 'immortality' explanations.

Biologically, humans are meant to consume things for survival such as food and shelter. It is hard wired to consume when there is plenty. Emptiness refers to the inner empty feeling humans have that used to be filled with activities and community but is replaced with electronics and shopping. However this does not fill the inner void. What is needed is relationships, pursuits and callings. Insecurity is a feeling that humans get when they have low self esteem and poor social skills. They compensate with consuming to gain success, enhance their social image and gain positive attention. Death and immortality in terms of consumption is the fear that is triggered that your legacy will be forgotten. It is also the feeling of safety when you have possessions and that can be passed on with your legacy.

How does 'happiness' compare to wealth, love, looks and heaven across countries?

Brazil Turkey USA Iran India Japan China Happiness was first but very pretty similar to love Then Wealth, Heaven and Looks last

What are three ways we can address the need for privacy/protection when designing buildings/residences.

Buildings-should provide protection and privacy- acoustic and physical privacy and defendable space (allows refuge), fences, walls Sight lines- we need to see the world (windows) so you can see threats and prospects (surveillance) Alcoves are ideal

What are the costs to excess consumption?

Canada has a lot of debt, there is environmental damage from resource extraction and disposal.

What are three explanations as to why rich kids suffer problems?

Children of wealthy families can experience problems such as a sense of entitlement, lack of involvement, isolation, no guidance from parents, when accustomed to that lifestyle it limits career options. If you want to maintain lifestyle, expectations and pressure occur. Lower levels of SWB due to pressure, higher rates of drug us, depression and anxiety compared to less affluent peers

What were the results of the China study and the Nurses' Health study?

Colin Campbell studies 65 countries and 2 villages, one person in 50 families and found that death rates, cancer and diseases were reduced with less consumption of animal products. In 1976 1/4 million nurses were involved in an in depth study. Researcher found that there was higher breast cancer correlated with consumption of red meat. High incidence of stroke with higher refined carbohydrates and processed foods.

Explain how social comparison, and aspiration affect the relationship between money and SWB

Compare our situation to others situation. How happy people are really compares to how their income is to others. If you are better off than others around you, you are happier. If everyone's disposable income goes up, it makes no difference because there is no comparison. However, this may cause social ills. ..... affect swb when it depends on how much money you want. There are 2 categories to this enough- those who feel they have enough and are satisfied and more- Those who feel they want more and are less satisfied. Then you need to adjust your income and expenses ratio

What are the main fields that seem to have most of the best jobs?

Computers and health care

Describe Deborah Danners 'Nun' study and its results

Content analysis on autobiographies from the 1930's-40's. Looked for positive and negative affect. Divided into quartiles titled very positive, somewhat positive, very negative, somewhat negative. Compared longevity for the top positive and bottom negative. Those that were the most positive were still alive at age 93 at 53% vs 18% for the most negative. This was a controlled environment and were able to replicate the results.

How does dancing reinforce social bonds?

Dancing together indicates commitment and a bond. It has survival and mating benefits. It shows that you are protected from others.

Which regions (collections of countries) of the world rank highest in life satisfaction and which rank lowest? Why?

Denmark and the other Nordic countries were the first five that ranked the highest in Life satisfaction. Cambodia, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Niger, Burkina Faso and Ethiopia rank the lowest. This is because of those that rank higher in SWB are wealthy and those ranking the lowest are poorer countries. There is also health concerns, political instability, human rights problems and government corruption that makes a difference in that as well

What are the alternative(s) to a consumer society?

Detachment- life is suffering due to desires so eliminate desires. Focus on needs not wants. Voluntary simplicity- happiness through living with less.

What are three things you can do to make exercise more enjoyable/a part of your life?

Ease into movement- take small steps that are non stressful and gentle Find activities that are fun, enjoyable and positive while simple to maintain without excess equipment or expensive memberships. eg walking/ jogging outdoors, dancing, interactive video games. Make fitness social to help with accountability and the fun factor. eg partner with a workout buddy, play on a sports team or join a club. That increases motivation and compliance

What is a healthy diet?

Eating more functional foods such as consumption of the rainbow diet of fruits and vegetables Eating less foods that can harm your health such as reducing animal fats, processed foods and added sugar and salt Reduce caffeine to reduce the physiological effects of stress Reduce excess calorie intake Give up tobacco use

Describe 3 areas of health that illustrate happier people are healthier

Happier people participate in a variety of more active and meaningful types of leisure activities. Have better immunity according to the hotel study of healthy people isolated in a hotel after assessing their tendency to negative and positive. They then infected them with the cold virus and assessed physical health and symptoms. Those with higher SWB were less likely to become ill. Also those with Higher SWB have a negative correlation with incidents of stroke. People that are happier have longer lives.

Explain the connection between SWB and health habits

Happy people are more likely to do things. They are more positive, more initiating and motivated. Healthy habits require action. By not smoking and drinking and good hygiene practices (brushing teeth is associated with heart disease as gums are an entry point to the bloodstream), improves health. Unhealthy habits such as drug dependencies, suicide accidents, mental health (behavioral and mental problems) have adverse reactions and lower longevity.

The authors of your text describe happiness as a process not a place. Explain this and use personal examples

Having your ducks in a row would guarantee happiness was not accurate. The way to gain happiness is to enjoy the activities as they are happening not the end result. You have to have the hardships to enjoy the good times as well.

Describe the 'Hotel in Pennsylvania' research outlined in your text and what it tells us about SWB

Healthy people isolated in a hotel after assessing their tendency to negative and positive. They then infected them with the cold virus and assessed physical health and symptoms. Those with higher SWB were less likely to become ill, and complain less when they do get sick.

What is better consumption?

Inconspicuous over conspicuous. Conspicuous means it is visible to others- cars, big house, armani suits, skido's. Inconspicuous is goods and activities that are valued for themselves. It's ok if you really like it and it's consumed privately. It is better because it is not social comparison

What does exercise do to our mental state and brain state that seems to lead to the increase in learning?

Increases brain function and decreases memory loss risk. Improves academic performance

Explain and give examples of active and passive leisure. Which is better?

Involves extension into an activity or Don't exert activity. Physically and mentally stimulating is the most beneficial with enjoyment and energy. However, passive leisure bring on a relaxation benefit.

What are the benefits of dancing?

It creates a closeness and bond, it conveys information about individuals mating capacities, synchrony fosters feelings of group affiliation. Touch, movement

Why are we social creatures and what biological attributes do we have today as a result?

It is inherent and important. The secret to life is "happiness is love" . People need and like other people and need and want that in return. Evolutionary, survival depended on bonding. By working together they found food, and got things done. Biologically, 1) the brains wiring is hard wired to the face (fusion gyrus) 2) mirror neurons that light up and is active when we see someone do something, that area in the brain is associated what that part that is active. This makes us empathetic and sync up. 3) Language area- uniquely attributed to being a human. Endocrine system and oxytocin makes us want to bond.

What is the fallacy of competitiveness according to Layard and give an example that supports his position

It is the belief that society cannot afford security due to globalization and its extreme competitiveness. An example of this fallicy is that there has been no increase in the rate of job destruction over the last 25 years, wages have increased to 1% a year and company profit has increased from 33%- 50%

Explain the connection between dancing and attraction

It is used to spot genetically robust mates. Symmetrical mates are preferred, as they represent good genes to mate with. Dance helps indicate these attributes and factors mating decisions.

What are the individual differences when it comes to the impact of marriage on SWB?

Its really because marriage has to be right for you, you have to be mature, compatible enough, and in the right place in your life

One way to foster our friendships is to improve our emotions. Explain how this helps and a research study to support this.

Lab studies researched arranged meetings with a stranger to have a short conversation. Some of the strangers scored high on measures of happiness and the others did not. People rated the happy people as more likeable and wanted to have a follow up conversation with them, ultimately fostering new friendships

Describe the stories of three social change agents discussed in class

Linda Londstrum was a fashion designer that creatively addressed a povern town by using her connections and advertising their art to sell. Solve 3 /expand the problem- water pump/ whirly gig piece of equipment at school. Kids play, it pumps water

What is the paradox of affluence and why does it exist?

Looked over decades at income levels (disposable income) and happiness. Disposable income has gone up since the 1950's but life satisfaction has stayed the same.

Describe the drawbacks to making, having and coming into money (windfall)

Making- Takes time away from pleasant life tasks, causes rising expectations, and as we earn more, we think we need more to be happier. Making- Materialism which is focusing on goods instead of leisure with loved ones. Also, children of wealthy parents have problems. Coming into it-Life disruption such as a sudden change of quitting your job and no work benefits, and relationship difficulties. Best if you plan and prepare for this life disruptions

Describe the benefits of making, having and coming into money (windfall)

Making- structure, income, work becomes our identity, and opportunities for flow. Having- Rich people experience 1) status- liked respected by others 2) control and autonomy in their life 3) consumption and spending Coming into it-Winning the lottery, or inheritance research found that they had an initial increase of happiness, then they adapt but overall they are still moderately happier then they were pr- lottery. The benefits are boost in joy, pleasure purchases such as new car and house, moderate boost in life satisfaction, unless you were were struggling or were very poor, then you experience significant life satisfaction.

What genetic tendency underlies our attraction to our companion animals

Maternal and paternal instinct

Differentiate the paradox of choice and the paradox of affluence

More choice, more pressure, more difficulty making a decision, which is not always better. Difference is the the anxiety component of trying to obtain more money instead of choosing how to spend it.

What are the 4 defining attributes of cultures discussed in class? Describe an example of each

Nature- some societies are organized- foods, tools, threat, stories, transportation are around nature History/ tradition- education, ceremonies, about their traditions. Asian talk about history Religion- Live and act is dictated by religion, Mecca's pray 5x a day.

How does the West differ from the East on: perception of self-concept, thinking style, life goal, expressiveness?

Perception of self concept Self serving, we think of ourselves in flattering ways, distort so we look good, stable, unchanging vs. Tend to be more self effacing, modest, humility, don't stand out, fluid Thinking style Linearly fashion (time is linear) vs. Think in a circular manner, seasons, cause and effect Life goals Personal well being is what they value vs Balance and yin yang is what they value Expressiveness More acceptable to have high arousal and be out there with happiness vs Happiness is low arousal, closer to contentment, things are in harmony and peace

Explain 7 of the 8 benefits of leisure

Positive emotions Flow /experience/passion Escape- doing something to get your mind off your problems, buffers the mind Relaxation- Unwind and have stress reduction, passive Autonomy- gives us an opportunity to control things, and make decision of our engagement in leisure Social interaction- chance to be with others. This indicator is the best predictor of SWB Learn- play is great for children for learning how to communicate, interaction skils,negotiate and influence. As adults you learn information about others, the world, and yourself and new skills. Identity- Rather than a past time, it becomes a large part of who you are

Describe the country of Bhutan, and its contribution to positive psychology and the world

Practices Buddhist religion, has strong family ties, isolated ie: legalized tv and internet in 1999, respect for nature (underground hydro project), respect of culture (legislative for dress and visitors), focus for happiness- king proclaimed that there should be a gross product called happiness and it is more important that other products. King gave up his position because he believed in a democracy instead of a dictatorship.

People who excel love what they do. This love leads to three outcomes that result in their excellence. Name and explain them

Pursuing excellence- training and education and then practice. Competence and mastery comes from practice work and nurturing the skill. 10000 hours or 10 year rule. Dedicated consistent practice that is effortful and purposeful.

What is the difference between time affluence and time poverty

Refers to a perception that one has enough time for leisure and activities that are personally meaningful. In contrast, the other refers to a feeling of being constantly busy and pressed for time.

Besides exercise, list 4 other categories of actions to improve health discussed in class and outline on peice of sound advice for each

Restoration- get good sleep and relaxation time Nutrition- eat a broad spectrum of food Movement- humans sit too much so its important to move your body. Dancing and play.

Explain the three types of health outlined in your text and briefly explain the results of one research study for each

School girls study- 70 minutes a week of exercise, they scored significantly higher on tests. Elderly cognitive functioning- 10k walking a week reduces brain shrinkage and protects brain from dementia. two explanations: energy and physical activity improves functional cognition and brain metabolisms improve (synapses, neurotransmitter production and formation)

Explain 2 points about unhappy people and watching tv.

TV doesnt seem to satisfy people over the long haul the way that social involvement or reading does. It is a short term pleasure at the expense of long term malaise.

Explain the 5 aspects outlined by Layard that are important to address for social improvement. For each explain a suggestion he puts forward for making improvement

Security needs to come from 5 aspects of society 1) Income- Collecting contributions should be anxiety free by collecting from existing earners so that at old age, you have an income. This allows the instability of relying from payoffs from investing in the stock market to sustain from when retiring. 2) Work- Unemployment is one of the worst things that can happen to someone. Europe discourage firing which leads to longer term employment. Education also helps with society being skilled workers and higher wages 3) Family life- policies regarding the welfare for children such as a duty to protect. Compulsory parenting classes in school, commitment to stay together before having children,and encourage both parents to look after the child and take time off work to do so. 4) Community- Having trust with neighbors and a tight knit community, proper physical planning to ensure increased mental health, less neighborhood turnover lends itself to low crime rate. 5) Health of mind- People want to be healthy and access to good treatment. There should be more emphasis in investment of mental health treatments and promoting its accessability

What were the two main findings of Robinson and Martin's research on happiness and TV viewing?

Self described very happy people were more socially active, attended more religious services, voted more and read more newspapers. By contrast, unhappy people watched significantly more TV in their spare time. The second finding is that TV time is "easy', by they dont have to exert any energy to watch TV such as make plans, get dressed up, plan ahead, or spend money.

Does the type of TV program make a difference? How?

Soap operas due to the para social interaction, you love and get to know the characters

What are the major characteristics of spirituality and how does it differ from religion?

Spirituality- alternative to religious institutions, look for inspiration, self transcendence, meaning , personal growth, also offers connection to something larger than themselves, just not in the confines of religion. Religious- commitment, humility, compassion, love. It is intrinsic- you don't have religion, you live religion

Compare NEAT to exercise

Stands for "non exercise activity thermogenisis" it is moving around, gardening, shopping, vacuuming, playing with the dog. Daily activities. Exercise is consciously moving for health benefits exclusively.

What type of stimulation seems to be at the heart of the benefit of massage, and what biological impacts does this have?

Stimulating pressure receptors in the brain which are well insulated nerve fibers- that are much more insulated than pain receptors. The biological impacts are connecting to the vargus nerve which connects to the heart and digestive tract and manipulate serotonin and cortisal release and slow heart rate, cause sleep which decreases pain, improves immunity functioning. All this improves psychiatric and attention problems, autoimmune problems such as diabetes and cancer

What are 3 ways high SWB seems to contribute to better health

Stress and swb are incompatible. There is an undoing effect where positive and neutral emotions undo the effects of stress. Chronic stress leads to release of cortisol which eats away at tissues.

Explain what telomeres are, what they indicate and what affects them

Stress increases the role of telomeres. On a cellular level, stress increases aging. Counteraction by developing an enzyme telomere and social support such as friends and family.

Explain the nature and results of the German study that examined the impact of marriage on happiness

Studied people and marriage, put in three groups 1) People were happy for two years then adapted to where they were before marriage 2) after 2 years they stay happy 3) happy for 2 years then swb goes down

According to Peter Gray what is the primary benefit to humanity of play? What types of play are best? And how did hunter-gatherers use play

The most important skill for social life is how to please others while still fulfilling one's own needs and desires. It wasn't just adding fun to early humans lives, it was essential for the egalitarian attitude, intense sharing and relative peacefulness that was dependent on their survival. they used humor to maintain equality and stop quarrels, play was used in religious ceremonies and playful qualities are encompassed in hunting, gathering and sustenance activities

Describe the correlation between income and life satisfaction for individuals and nations.

There is a positive correlation between income and SWB. If you have a rich nation then you are happier, but it levels out after dramatic increase of SWB

Describe the beliefs and actions of Phelps and the Westborough Baptist church

They believe that most Americans are unhappy, hypocritical, miserable, and intolerant, that God hates most people and as a result they have little humanity for mankind. This contradicts most of the studies done on religious people. It can help people but depends on the beliefs

Are the religious better off? If so how so?

They experience better health benefits, more tolerant and forgiving. They have better social support, less finaincial stress, less likely to use drugs, and commit crime. They are more happier overall

How were night time commercial air accidents reduced by human factors professionals

They looked at how accidents were occurring and changed the conditions so that the copilot monitored the altimeter and call out the altitudes during the descent of landings and accidents diminished.

What was the author of your text's point about 'moaners and groaners'

Those people that complain about their pain may actually feel pain more than uptight people, as negative moods can reduce pain tolerance.

Name and explain the concept that 'goes beyond flow'

Vital engagement- encompasses purpose into flow; passion and meaning. It offers a thickening web of connections- part of a community, connects you to tradition, opportunity to connect to ones self

Describe Elizabeth Dunn's research on how people spend their money and on the effects of receiving a bonus

You can gain higher SWB if you spend it on charities and others. It was the relative percentage of their money that people spend on others—rather than the absolute amount—that predicted their happiness. The size of the bonus that people received had no impact on their long-term happiness. It was the percentage of that bonus they spent on others that increased their well-being

Explain the happiness advantage as it applies to work

You earn more. Those with high SWB make $15000 more each year. Better performance and creative due to broadened mind. Fewer quit from happiness in life which lowers the chance of changing it. Organization citizenship more likely to help the organization. Higher SWB helps when being hired for the job.

Describe 5 benefits of having work (employment).

You have better material sufficiency in terms of: decent wage social engagements status and respect competence identity flow life structure meaning and purpose

What is meant by 'We should have 3 jobs'?

You should have paid employment- what makes money You should be and entrepreneur- a side job that is your passion You should volunteer- unpaid work that helps society. Advantages to these three things are: Resilience- if there's a problem in one, you can draw from another role Cross fertilization- ideas, contacts, and other resources from one area can benefit the other area Stimulation- makes one role less tedious and enriches your life

What is the barter problem? Give an example, and what can be done to overcome it.

You were specialized in certain things that you bartered for. Sometimes, the other person didn't want what you had to trade though, so they invented a market and a universal, gold coin and applied value to it that you could trade for a non specific good. The gold coin was flexible. The problem was that it could be stolen. To fix that, the blacksmith offered to make a vault and keep peoples gold coins safe in exchange for a bit of money. This was later evolved into a bank and the payment to keep the gold coins safe was called interest.