Research results are surprising: Obese individuals have higher happiness levels

Remarkable findings were obtained in a nationwide happiness study conducted by Prof. Dr. Ercan Yılmaz, Specialist Abdullah Aktürk, and Psychological Counselor Demet Yılmaz from Necmettin Erbakan University, with the participation of approximately 1,700 people.

Within the scope of the research, the effects of individuals' income level, education level, family structure, living conditions, psychological attitudes, and social relationships on happiness were examined in detail. The results showed that social support, a sense of freedom, a life purpose, and one's perspective on life are far more important than economic conditions.

While 35.93% of the participants defined themselves as "happy" and 27.56% as "very happy," approximately 6 out of every 10 people stated that they were in a generally positive mood. It was determined that the happiness levels of obese individuals were significantly higher compared to thin, normal-weight, and slightly overweight people. This finding reveals that one's social and psychological environment shapes their mood more than their physical appearance.

SOCIAL SUPPORT AND LIFE PURPOSE GAIN IMPORTANCE

In his assessment of the study, Prof. Dr. Ercan Yılmaz stated: “Before conducting the research, we set out with the assumption, based on our observations, that a large part of society was unhappy. However, the results we obtained were quite surprising. We saw that when people have a purpose in life, they enjoy life more and feel happy. Furthermore, the happiness rate of individuals who receive social support from their surroundings is also remarkably high. Regarding obese people, while it is generally thought in society that they are unhappy, our findings show the exact opposite. Obese individuals are happier compared to non-obese people. Another important factor is fulfilling responsibilities within the family; this also has a happiness-enhancing effect.”

In the study, a prominent relationship between education level and happiness was also identified. It was determined that primary school and university graduates are happier than middle school and high school graduates. In addition, it was noted that conditions in working life and the nature of the job can also affect individuals' happiness positively or negatively.

THE IMPACT OF INCOME EQUALITY AND OTHER FACTORS

In the research, it was observed that the effect of income on happiness does not go beyond a certain level. Although those with an income below the minimum wage are unhappier, it was stated that income level differences above this threshold do not significantly change happiness. Prof. Dr. Yılmaz said, “It was also determined that envying the luxurious lives in TV series and comparing them with the comfortable lives experienced in other countries increases the feeling of unhappiness in individuals. Those who can make life decisions freely are happier. Also, when we look at family structure, the happiness rate is higher among those who belong to a nuclear family.”

Among the regional findings of the research, it was noted that those living in Southeastern and Eastern Anatolia feel unhappier compared to other regions. It was emphasized that a complex thought structure and approaching events in a complex way also make people unhappier. Furthermore, it was revealed that being overly interested in news and politics also increases unhappiness in individuals.

Finally, no significant difference was seen in the relationship between place of residence (village, town, city, metropolitan area, etc.) and age. It was once again revealed that the main determinants of happiness are the individual's social support and approach to life, rather than economic or environmental factors.