Altuism, Happiness, and Health: It's Good to Be Good

Overview

Journal Int J Behav Med

Publisher Informa Healthcare

Date 2005 May 20

PMID 15901215

Citations 112

Authors

Stephen G Post

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Altruistic (other-regarding) emotions and behaviors are associated with greater well-being, health, and longevity. This article presents a summary and assessment of existing research data on altruism and its relation to mental and physical health. It suggests several complimentary interpretive frameworks, including evolutionary biology, physiological models, and positive psychology. Potential public health implications of this research are discussed, as well as directions for future studies. The article concludes, with some caveats, that a strong correlation exists between the well-being, happiness, health, and longevity of people who are emotionally and behaviorally compassionate, so long as they are not overwhelmed by helping tasks.

Citing Articles

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Conscientiousness, Public Service Motivation, Resilience, and Work Engagement among Volunteers in Lebanon.

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Cuesta-Valino P, Penelas-Leguia A, Lopez-Sanz J, Ravina-Ripoll R BMC Psychol. 2024; 12(1):524.

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