Abstract |
The chapter reviews and expands upon one of the first cultural psychological survey of happiness and life satisfaction conducted in the South Pacific island nation of Tonga (Moore,Young-Leslie, & Lavis 2005). We found the majority of the Tongan respondents reported being quite satisfied and happy with their lives. The underlying structure or pattern of these judgments also reflect the common three-factor structure of subjective wellbeing— positive emotions, negative emotions, and overall life satisfaction. In terms of unique cultural features, these judgments of happiness and satisfaction were strongly influenced by the prevailing cultural values present in Tonga. The experience of positive emotions such as satisfaction and happiness were based on respondents’ perceptions of smooth social functioning and fulfillment of kinship obligations. Satisfaction with religion also contributed to Tongan’s happiness. In addition, factors related to rank and status within Tongan culture, such as maturity, predicted overall satisfaction and positive wellbeing. Concerns and emotions focused on individualism were not highly predictive of satisfaction levels. |