The Internet, Happiness, and Social Interaction: A Review of Literature

This paper is a review of literature relevant to the Internet, happiness, and social interaction. The definition of happiness is discussed, emphasizing its subjective quality, followed by a review of studies that have examined the correlates of happiness. This is followed by a review of studies on internet use, happiness, and social interaction, which yields the conclusion that the internet can facilitate social communication and interpersonal connections, which is, in turn, associated with higher levels of happiness and well being.

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