Culture: The Role Of Happiness In American Culture

Happiness in Culture

Every culture is unique and different, including what brings them joy and cheerfulness. Culture deeply impacts our views and expectations of happiness; everything from the traditions that are followed, to the clothes we wear, to the foods we eat, have an effect. (?)
While, humans strive for happiness it is not always obviously shown or even the main goal of a specific culture. Unfortunately, not every country is able to be considered extremely happy like the Danes; who are among the highest ranked nations in the world when it comes to happiness (Wiking, viii). For instance, East Asians have “lower happiness expectations”, then most Americans who are accustomed to smiles and uplifting conversations on a day to day basis
Since America is the great melting pot, multiple diverse cultures and people groups practice their own forms of being happy, whether it’s on a small or large scale. In my family food and holidays provide a deep sense of delight and coziness. No matter what, gatherings are bound to happen, especially around Christmas; meaning there’s loads of food and desserts. Everyone cheerfully enjoys the time of eating, being comfortable, and engaging with other family members, while forgetting about their troubles for a rare few hours. Personally, getting a good grade, shopping, and exercising all bring me happiness, beyond all this I deeply connect with the “hygge” factor. I find comfort in reading a book with a cup of tea, eating dark chocolate, and having special soothing lights on, all while being warm and cozy. Amazingly such a soothing atmosphere is known by the Danes as “hygge” (Wieking, vi). While those things bring me happiness, another teenage girl might find it more heartening to go out to a loud party, or play a game with her siblings; how she tries to find happiness is based on her culture and social setting. Everyone in America is different from individuals to families, yet, everyone loves having a sense