Close Relationships and Happiness in South America

Abstract

The Latin American population presents a challenge to the scientific investigation of happiness. To study happiness in Latin America, factors such as an overall presence of economic hardship and other economically relevant factors must be considered. This chapter discusses how close relationships and happiness in South American populations are related by reviewing recent studies. Happiness in South America has been associated with many variables, especially close relationships, which are defined within the literature as romantic or marital relationships, family relationships, and friendships. Social-relational factors, including close relationships, are mentioned as relevant determinants of happiness in the region. In future research, sociological, economic, and psychological approaches, including diverse theoretical frameworks and methodological procedures, could contribute to a better understanding of how close relationships and happiness are connected.