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Fast Thinking Makes People Happy

Rapid thoughts can make people feel happier

By Ambreen Ali,  Newser User

Posted Feb 25, 2009 9:16 PM CST

(Newser) – Happy people think fast thoughts, say researchers at Princeton and Harvard. They asked two groups to perform the same tasks—problem-solving, reading, and watching TV—at different speeds. Those forced to move along briskly felt more elated, creative, even powerful, Scientific American reports. The findings suggest a crossword puzzle or brainstorming session can release mood-enhancing dopamine in the brain, and help cure the blues.

Rapid-fire thinking can have negative consequences, too. For people with bipolar disorder, the information overload can feel unpleasant. And while fast and varied tasks produce good feelings, repetitive motions—at any speed—dampen spirits. Still, “these little bursts of positive emotion add up,” says a psychologist, who notes that happiness can improve immunity, socialization, and productivity.

Fast thoughts may trigger dopamine that rewards the brain with a mood boost.
Fast thoughts may trigger dopamine that rewards the brain with a mood boost.   (Shutter stock)
Activities that require rapid thinking make the brain feel more elated, the study says.
Activities that require rapid thinking make the brain feel more elated, the study says.   (Shutter stock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
Guest
Feb 25, 2009 9:54 PM CST
I think I could out play anyone as far as trivia goes.... People who think slow sukkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk.
Addyp
Feb 25, 2009 9:49 PM CST
Good study but didn't it come out in Scientific American like a month ago??
Guest
Feb 25, 2009 8:49 PM CST
1st! (so happy right now)

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