THE PROBLEM OF MEASURING HAPPINESS, WELL-BEING AND LIFE SATISFACTION IN MODERN PSYCHOLOGY
This article discusses various approaches and definitions of such concepts as happiness, well-being and life satisfaction, as well as the most well-known theories and measurement methods. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of various measurement methods, their features, the problems of studying these phenomena and possible ways to overcome methodological difficulties. Happiness (well being, satisfaction with life) is one of the most important aspect of the general quality of life of modern individual. The fact of growing body of research and the level of quality of studies in this field itself proves the special significance of the problem of evaluation and measurement of happiness and increasing scientific interest. Studies around happiness and its aspects are of significant importance for the modern society and social sciences, however is accompanied with methodological issues and challenges. In this article is composing review of existing happiness theories and respective methods of measurement, lists key challenges around happiness studies and metrics, and suggest potential ways for overcoming related issues. Based on this review, further directions of continued future studies of happiness itself and respective phenomena of significant social importance are outlined as well.