Happiness during adolescence linked to pleasurable adulthood

By Staff Writer

A new study from researchers at the University of Cambridge and the MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Aging reveals that a happy teenager is more likely to be a satisfied adult.

The report examined the link by analyzing data from 2,776 individuals who participated in the 1946 British cohort study. Researchers measured the participants' level of happiness at ages 13 and 15, and then compared these results to their overall well-being several decades later.

Teens who were considered happy generally made friends easily, felt content and possessed a lot of energy. Adolescents who did not meet this criteria were more anxious, antisocial and disobedient. Their well-being during adulthood was based on mental health, relationships, work experience and social activities.

The team found that the participants who were happy teens were 60 percent less likely than their peers who had no positive ratings to develop mental disorders. In addition, happy teens were significantly more likely to have frequent contact with friends and family, higher work satisfaction and regular engagement in social activities.

Adolescents who are depressed or anxious may receive the treatment that they need at troubled teen programs, such as wilderness therapy camps.