The link between happiness and IQ
MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2014 12:36 PM

Culturally, we seem to be at a bit of a logical stalemate over the link between intelligence and overall life happiness. Some reason that people who have higher IQs tend to be less happy because they can analyze the negative aspects of their lives in detail. Others assert that people with lower IQs don't achieve as many life goals, and so are less happy. Finally, researchers have a scientific answer to the quandary. According to a study published in the journal Psychological Medicine, people who have a lower IQ tend to be less happy than those who have a high IQ.

Ascertaining IQ and happiness
Researchers used data from the 2007 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey conducted in England, which included more than 6,000 participants. Each individual was aged 16 or older and lived in a private residence. The survey discerned IQ by having participants take the National Adult Reading Test and happiness through a series of questions. The results indicated that a link does exist between IQ and happiness. More specifically, those with a lower IQ (between 70-99) are less happy than those with a high IQ (120-129).

However, certain variables decreased the impact of intelligence on happiness, including income, neurotic symptoms and health. For instance, those who have good health and a high income but have low IQ may be just as happy as those who are extremely smart. Researchers noted that by improving those life conditions, people of all intelligence levels tend to find greater joy in life.

Depression and IQ
IQ can impact a person's level of happiness, but the opposite is also true. According to a study published in the British Journal of Psychology, depression may decrease a person's cognitive ability. The mental disorder is known to cause mood issues and lack of motivation, but researchers also discovered that it impairs cognition. In fact, the study revealed that depression can decrease executive brain function and memory retention.

The two studies together indicate a serious cycle of intelligence and perceived happiness in which mental disorder can impair cognition and cognition can impair mood. Both kids and adults who have mental disorders should seek treatment. In fact, one in eight men has depression and one in four women has it. As such, the illness is very prevalent. However, it's treatable. Those who have been treated for depression report significant improvements in their moods and outlooks on life.