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. 1992 Jun;18(2):94-8.
doi: 10.1136/jme.18.2.94.

A proposal to classify happiness as a psychiatric disorder

R P Bentall  1
Affiliations

A proposal to classify happiness as a psychiatric disorder

R P Bentall. J Med Ethics. 1992 Jun.

Abstract

It is proposed that happiness be classified as a psychiatric disorder and be included in future editions of the major diagnostic manuals under the new name: major affective disorder, pleasant type. In a review of the relevant literature it is shown that happiness is statistically abnormal, consists of a discrete cluster of symptoms, is associated with a range of cognitive abnormalities, and probably reflects the abnormal functioning of the central nervous system. One possible objection to this proposal remains--that happiness is not negatively valued. However, this objection is dismissed as scientifically irrelevant.

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