Philippine E-Journals

Perceptions of Happiness of the Selected Young Professional and Non-Professional Residents of Los Baños, Laguna

Kristine Zarah L. Bauan | Eloisa S. Dichoso | Shayne Anne R. Freo

Discipline: Psychology

 

Abstract:

This qualitative research on the perceptions of happiness of the selected young professional and non-professional residents of Los Baños, Laguna aimed to determine the perceived definitions, sources, and circumstances of happiness in their lives. The study involved the researchers and nine professional and non-professional residents of Los Baños, Laguna as respondents. Through interview, different perceptions were gathered and thematically analyzed. Different themes were constructed regarding the participants’ perceived definitions of happiness.

Results showed that the common definition of happiness for both professional and non-professional respondents is being with their families, keeping the family safe and intact, and providing them a good life. The sources of happiness of the participants are their families, career, social relationships, economic stability, and achievements. Moreover, the circumstances that affect their perceptions of happiness are academic achievements, safety and stability, becoming a parent, self-improvement, and overcoming trials. On the other hand, the difference between the perceptions of happiness of the professional and non-professional respondents of Los Baños, Laguna in terms of happiness is that the professionals perceived their happiness through the fulfilment of their personal dreams and achievements while the non-professional respondents perceived their happiness through their families’ happiness or welfare.