Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Happiness Research Coordination prepared the Turkey Happiness Report 2024, revealing the happiness levels of individuals across Turkey. In the research conducted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gökmen Arslan and his team, the happiness levels of individuals in 81 provinces were examined in relation to various economic, social, and demographic factors.
Turkey's Happiness Level 5.68
The average happiness level across Turkey was determined to be 5.68. Based on information gathered from approximately 5,500 people, Sinop ranked as the happiest province, followed by Nevşehir, Erzincan, Yalova, Kırıkkale, Bursa, Tokat, Bartın, Balıkesir, and Bilecek. These provinces, particularly those with a lifestyle intertwined with nature and strong social bonds, stood out in terms of happiness.
Key Indicators of Happiness: Life Satisfaction, Emotions, and Environmental Factors
The research evaluated individuals' happiness based on life satisfaction, positive and negative emotions. Participants rated their lives on a scale from 0 (worst) to 10 (best). Factors such as social support, feelings of loneliness, physical and mental health were also considered. According to the results, social support and individuals' physical health played a decisive role in happiness.
Factors Affecting Happiness: Sleep, City Life Quality, and Social Support
The report revealed that the most influential factor on individuals' happiness is sleep quality. A good sleep pattern significantly increases individuals' life satisfaction. Additionally, the quality of life in the city they live in, time allocated for personal development and hobby activities, social support, and physical health are among other important factors affecting happiness.
Gender Does Not Matter for Happiness
The research indicated that gender does not have a significant impact on happiness. No significant difference was observed in terms of life satisfaction between male and female individuals.
Turkey Happiness Report 2024 highlights the importance of efforts towards social support, personal development, and quality of life to increase individuals' happiness.