• Dr. Suraj Kumar

Before going to discuss on the topic “Happiness: Nature Vs. Nurture” we need to know first what is happiness? According to Psychology happiness is nothing but a chemical named Dopamine which is released in our brain (in Pituitary gland). This hormone is released when we do something pleasurable like when we listen light music, getting massage or completing a physical exercise. Serotonin, Endorphins and oxytocin are also known as happy hormones. Researches says that 50% of our happiness comes from our gene(5-HTTLPR), 10% from our day to day lives and other 40% is depending on us. Nature or genetic happiness depends on our gene. At the time of birth specific variation of the gene 5-HTTLPR can lead to an overall higher life satisfaction rate but it does not give us the guarantee for a content life.The importance of nature vs. nurture in determining an individual’s happiness. Both nature (genetics) and nurture(environment) have similar significant and influence in the case of an individual’s happiness. Both play a significant role in the shaping of an individual’s happiness and personality traits as well. Gene can predispose individuals to certain personality traits and emotional disposition. An individual may have a genetic component to happiness. For example, identical twins are more likely to share similar level of happiness compared to fraternal twins. Nurture(environment) also play an important role shaping an individual’s happiness positive and supportive environment make one’s happy while negative and stressful environments can lead to unhappiness. Despite all childhood experiences family dynamics, socio economic status and cultural factors play a significant role in shaping one’s values beliefs and expectations which in turn can influence their perception happiness. Nature and nurture both are dependent on each other and both can make impact to shape one’s personality and happiness.

Nature, Nurture, Happiness, Neurotransmitter, Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin

"Factors Affecting Happiness", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 1, page no.e546-e549, January-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2401464.pdf

"Factors Affecting Happiness", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 1, page no. ppe546-e549, January-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2401464.pdf