Happiness in children

Happiness is defined by pleasurable experiences that result in contentment and a state of well-being. The Psychological aspects of a child's well-being is similar to the recipe of an adults well being. Positive relationships,growth, purpose, mastery and self acceptance are all factors that contribute to happiness (Ryff 1989).
The relation between happiness and demographics are minimal. Most studies related to happiness in children are focused around children between the ages of nine and twelve because they have the maturity to understand the complexity of emotions and are aware they can be felt simultaneously.Happiness and personality are closely linked but studies show that a human does not develop their full personality traits until the age of thirty (Holder and Klassen 2010).
Social Variables:
Pre-adolescent children have unique factors that contribute to their happiness. Studies show that a second grader is happier than an eighth grader due to a difference in cognitive maturity. Research shows a child's relationship with parents is the most significant social factor of a child's reported happiness. Closeness to parents were a predictor of happiness although pre-adolescents view relationships with parents as more supportive, less conflicted, hence feeling more content. However, younger children view their relationships with siblings as more conflicted and stressful, while first born children report being happier. Negative relationships among peers resulted in children reporting unhappiness, while children who form strong bonds among friends report a stronger sense of well being (Holder and Coleman 2009).
Mastery:
Achievement or being good at certain skill combined with friends and families appreciation of that skill contributes to a child's happiness. However,if happiness can only be achieved if that goal was met (conditional goal setting), it can lead to depression (DeHaan 2009).
Genetic Aspects:
Research shows that a brain being more active in the left frontal lobe are associated with a happier person. On the contrary, a brain that shows more activity in the left frontal lobe is associated with people who are more negative and shy. Mood varies these patterns, so a child's personality isn't necessarily "set". Negative psychological traits tend to be more difficult to change as a child gets older (DeHaan 2009).

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