Happiness as a signal: The social functions of expressions of happiness in the context of culture and emotional tribes

Abstract

Well-being research has traditionally focused on exploring the subjective experience of happiness. To broaden this perspective, this review examines the social and communicative functions of the expression of happiness. This analysis highlights the potential of expressions of happiness to elicit social rewards, induce positive emotions in others, shape favorable perceptions, and promote social cohesion. The review shows that expressions of happiness can significantly enhance an individual's social fitness in contemporary society. The contemporary societal pressure to appear happy is also discussed. This can lead to dissonance between authentic emotional experiences and emotional expressions. Attention is also drawn to the phenomenon of emotional tribalism, highlighting the potential prejudice and discrimination that individuals and groups may face as a result of their public displays of unhappiness.