The effect and mechanisms of self-transcendence values on durable happiness
Advances in Psychological Science January 1, 2022 Ping-Chin Liu, Rongwei Zhang, Dan Li
People who prioritize caring for others (self-transcendence values) tend to experience durable happiness—a stable state of contentment and inner peace—whereas those focused on self-enhancement experience fluctuating pleasure and distress. The mechanism involves three paths: reduced defensive responses to self-threatening information, more socially engaging emotions such as empathy, love, and compassion, and increased prosocial behaviors. The authors propose further investigation of these mechanisms and recommend education in self-transcendence values to foster a healthy social mentality.