Older people are happier and some researchers want to know why. Some psychologists believe that cognitive processes are at work remembering positive events and screening out the bad ones. That selective process may help them regulate emotions, letting them view life with a more positive filter.
“There is a lot of good theory about this age difference in happiness,” says psychologist Derek M. Iaacowitz of Northeastern University, “but much of the research does not provide direct evidence.”
Researchers, including Isaacowitz and his colleague the late Fredda Blanchard-Fields of Georgia Institute of Technology, found that when older people are shown pictures of faces or events, they tend to focus on and remember the happier ones more and the negative ones less. Other studies suggest that as people age, the deliberately seek out situations and companionship that will make them happier. It has been shown that older people will reduce their circle of friends to eliminate the negative Nancy.
The authors in their latest paper say that among the research is missing a link between these strategies and improvement of mood. “When we try to use those cognitive processes to predict change of mood, they don’t always do so,” he said. “Sometimes looking at positive pictures doesn’t make people feel better.”
“It won’t be as easy to say old people are happier. But even if they are happier on average, we still want to know in what situations does this particular strategy make this particular person with these particular qualities or strengths feel good,” concluded Isaacowitz. And wouldn’t we all like to know that?
Source: MedicalNewsToday, Perspectives on Psychological Science
Call 1-877-398-2002 Anytime To Discuss Treatment Options if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues.
To search by State and City instead of by Zip Code / Postal Code, select a state from the list below.
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
The information provided on the PsyWeb.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of PsyWeb.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
SupportGroups.com provides a support network for those dealing with mental health and other life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support in a confidential, caring environment.
