A number of researchers have looked at positive emotions including Maslow (1968), Csikszentmihalyi (1975), Argyle & Crossland (1987), Waterman (1993) and Privette (1983). Common characteristics of what are typically termed 'Peak Experiences' are: ·
- Absorption, focused attention ·
- Awareness of power ·
- Intense joy, value and meaning ·
- Spontaneity, effortlessness ·
- Integration and identity (Privette 1983)

There are a number of recorded causes of positive emotions in everyday life: ·
- Eating ·
- Social activities ·
- Sex ·
- Exercise and sport ·
- Alcohol and other drugs ·
- Success and social approval ·
- Use of skills ·
- Music & the arts ·
- Religion ·
- Weather and environment ·
- Rest and relaxation

Positive affect is widely believed to have a beneficial physiological effect on the body, albeit at this time the research is sparse as to the mechanism for this. Most of the research is being done in the relatively new field of Psychoneuroimmunology. Extreme positive emotion has a physiological effect on the body, often referred to as eustress. The mechanism for eustress is similar to that of distress.

Click here to learn more about the biochemical mechanisms behind stress and happiness.

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