A recent study published in the magazine Social Indicators Research showed that having a petlike a dog or cat, can contribute significantly to the satisfaction of lifeleading to an increase in happiness comparable to what is experienced When marrying a person.
The research, conducted by experts from the University of Kent and London School of Economics, analyzed the data of over 2,500 families, using a happiness scale from 1 to 7. The results showed that having a pet increases the happiness of 3-4 points.
To better understand this effect, researchers applied a economic model to determine the monetary value of this increase in well -being. It emerged that the emotional value of possessing a pet is equivalent to a Earning of about 88,000 dollars per year (about 77,500 euros). This data, although not a real income, represents The “emotional equivalent” That having a pet can make the quality of life.
There are differences between those who have dogs and those who have cats
In addition to the psychological benefit, the study highlighted some differences between the dog owners and those of cats. In particular, people who own a dog tend to be more extroverted and emotionally stablewhile cat holders are more inclined to show one greater intellectual opening. These differences suggest that the choice of the animal could be related to details personality traits of the owners.
The emotional value of pets is not limited to a simple increase in happiness. This study, in fact, establishes a real correlation between the presence of a pet and the improvement of psychological well -being.
The evidence is so strong to induce the authors to suggest that the results of this research could have practical implications in terms Of public policies. For example, it may be useful to review the regulations that regulate keep animals in some homes, to facilitate access to a type of company that, according to data, brings numerous benefits to the mental and physical health of individuals.
In short, the company of a pet offers a emotional value that goes well beyond affection: it is an investment in one’s own happiness and in one’s well -being, with a tangible impact on the quality of life. That’s why we should all adopt a dog or cat!
