title: Measuring happiness: from fluctuating happiness to authentic-durable happiness.
abstract: On the basis of the theoretical distinction between self-centeredness and selflessness (Dambrun and Ricard, 2011), the main goal of this research was to develop two new scales assessing distinct dimensions of happiness. By trying to maximize pleasures and to avoid displeasures, we propose that a self-centered functioning induces a fluctuating happiness in which phases of pleasure and displeasure alternate repeatedly (i.e., Fluctuating Happiness). In contrast, a selfless psychological functioning postulates the existence of a state of durable plenitude that is less dependent upon circumstances but rather is related to a person's inner resources and abilities to deal with whatever comes his way in life (i.e., Authentic-Durable Happiness). Using various samples (n = 735), we developed a 10-item Scale measuring Subjective Fluctuating Happiness (SFHS) and a 13-item scale assessing Subjective Authentic-Durable Happiness (SA-DHS). Results indicated high internal consistencies, satisfactory test-retest validities, and adequate convergent and discriminant validities with various constructs including a biological marker of stress (salivary cortisol). Consistent with our theoretical framework, while self-enhancement values were related only to fluctuating happiness, self-transcendence values were related only to authentic-durable happiness. Support for the distinction between contentment and inner-peace, two related markers of authentic happiness, also was found.
authors.affiliation: Laboratoire de Psychologie Sociale et Cognitive, CNRS, Clermont Université, Université Blaise Pascal Clermont-Ferrand, France.
authors.forename: Michaël
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dambrun
authors.forename: Matthieu
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ricard
authors.forename: Gérard
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Després
authors.forename: Emilie
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Drelon
authors.forename: Eva
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Gibelin
authors.forename: Marion
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gibelin
authors.forename: Mélanie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Loubeyre
authors.forename: Delphine
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Py
authors.forename: Aurore
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Delpy
authors.forename: Céline
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Garibbo
authors.forename: Elise
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Bray
authors.forename: Gérard
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Lac
authors.forename: Odile
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Michaux