The 6 types of joy

There are different types of joy because The reasons that cause this emotion to arise are very different.. It is a consequence of a state of satisfaction and pleasure that also makes the moment more pleasant and makes life easier in many aspects.

The different types of joy have in common the fact that they unleash a series of physiological responses. Increases heart and respiratory rate and increases the secretion of endorphins and other hormones that influence mood.

In addition, all types of joy are unleashed by some specific event. They are associated with well-being, the feeling of happiness or gratification. They generate smiles and, in general terms, it is positive for physical and mental health. Let’s see the various modalities of this emotion.

1. Genuine

It is the typical or classic form of joy, in which some fortunate or pleasant event takes place and causes a feeling of satisfaction. It flows naturally and is expressed as enthusiasm, well-being and vitality. It gives rise to spontaneous smiles and a feeling of placidity.

Genuine joy arises when it occurs a situation that is assumed as an achievement or as the fulfillment of a desire. It doesn’t have to be an unusual event, but it does have to be relevant enough to provoke this emotion.

2. Hilarious

This is one of the most intense types of joy, since It arises when you are in front of a comic or funny situation. In this case there are no smiles, but laughter and the feeling of well-being is more vivid, although more fleeting than in the previous case.

Hilarious joy appears when we are in front of a surprising, absurd or paradoxical situation. Laughter produces an emotional discharge that is very positive and after which there is a feeling of relaxation.

3. Hedony, one of the types of joy

Another type of joy is known as “hedonia.” Refers to a more basic form of liking. For example, that which comes from satisfying essential needs such as eating, having sexual relations, sleeping, etc.

That pleasure is enhanced when you eat something you love or you can rest if you feel exhausted, etc. It is also present in situations in which it is possible to avoid something undesirable, feared or that generates discomfort in some way..

4. Eudaimonia

The joy that comes from eudaimonia refers to that pleasure associated with the realization of values, ideals and related aspects. It is the happiness you feel when, for example, justice is done.

A very special form of this type of joy is the well-being that is experienced when you manage to take an important step in the process of personal development. An example of this is the satisfaction felt when a new habit is consolidated, which is considered positive, or a fear is overcome.

5. Cynical

This is one of those types of joy that couldn’t really be classified as a genuine emotion. That is It is a feigned satisfaction. The festive mood and supposed exultation are nothing more than a mask intended to deceive others.

In principle, A feigned joy is one that is shown, for example, to please an authority figure.. Enthusiasm or satisfaction is shown because in this way one responds to what the other expects. Like when the boss tells a bad joke and everyone laughs because not doing so would mean causing disagreement.

However, the cynical joy goes further. It is not an emotion as such, but a premeditated imposture. It operates as a defense mechanism to hide what one really feels. An example of this is when you meet your ex and her new partner; perhaps you choose to show a satisfaction that you don’t really feel.

6. Pathological

This is not joy as such, in the strict sense. It is the result of a chemical imbalance or some mental disorder and is expressed as euphoria or mania.. Euphoria manifests itself as a state of excitement, in which laughter and apparent satisfaction are marked by anguish or anxiety.

In mania there is a state of agitation that manifests itself through obsessive or compulsive behaviors.. Like the person addicted to video games who is apparently very satisfied when playing, but who has some desperation in his behavior and an obvious attachment to it. The different types of joy are states of mind in which satisfaction is present anyway. In its healthy forms it is an emotion that enriches and makes life lighter.

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