A recent study led by Michael Gurven, a Professor of Anthropology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, challenges the popular notion of happiness over one’s lifetime following a U-shaped curve. While this trend may hold true in wealthier countries like the United States, it does not necessarily apply to low-income, nonindustrialized societies in the Global South.
The study examined aging in rural, subsistence-oriented communities across 23 countries in the Global South and found that happiness levels did not consistently follow the U-shaped trajectory observed in industrialized societies. In some cases, there was an inverted U-shape, with middle-aged adults reporting the highest level of happiness, or no significant age-related trend at all.
One of the key findings of the study was that well-being often declined after middle age among resource-poor populations lacking social security and other forms of institutionalized protection. Age itself was found to be a weak predictor of life satisfaction, with factors such as sickness, disability, and loss in productivity playing a more significant role in determining well-being.
The research challenges the assumption that the U-shaped happiness curve is universal and highlights the importance of considering environmental and socioeconomic factors in shaping well-being over a lifespan. By examining a broader range of settings, the study offers a more nuanced perspective on happiness that could inform policies for different age groups and cultures.
Understanding well-being across diverse cultures is crucial, especially in the context of global aging and mental health crises. By reevaluating the determinants of happiness outside the U-shaped model, we can better address the needs of different populations worldwide and improve overall quality of life.
This article was originally published on The Conversation and has been republished under a Creative Commons license. It underscores the significance of considering cultural and economic factors in shaping happiness and well-being, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing global health challenges.
