Happiness levels linked to political activism, survey says

By Staff Writer

Happy people are more likely to vote than dissatisfied individuals, according to a new study.

The report, which appears in the Journal of Happiness Studies, is based on a survey of 1,300 American adults. They examined whether a person voted, participated in political rallies, contributed to candidates, contacted an elected official or displayed public support for a politician. Researchers also measured respondents' levels of satisfaction.

They found that people who said that they were happy were more likely to vote and participate in the election process, while unhappy respondents exhibited significantly less interest in getting involved in politics. These results surprised some researchers who thought that dissatisfied individuals would be more apt to support change through a ballot and political advocacy.

Although there is little evidence that proves that getting involved in politics can lead to happiness, these findings suggest that being content may draw someone to politics. The study also indicates that some depressed individuals feel less empowered, which is a sign of low self-esteem.

Adolescents who have confidence issues may benefit from summer boot camps for teens, which are designed to help participants feel good about themselves.