On the continuous calibration of happiness

The nature of happiness is considered. A model is reviewed in which the affect system is continuously recalibrated regarding a given domain of experiences as a function of the dominant affective tone those experiences have over time. In this view, people who experience repeated negative affect in a domain undergo an adjustment such that they become less demanding about the quality of experience producing happiness; people who experience repeated positive affect in a domain undergo an adjustment such that they become more demanding about the quality of experience required for happiness. Each results in a re-balancing of the system. As objective circumstances vary, the person still experiences both happiness and unhappiness. Implications are considered for large life changes and for individuals with disabilities.