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date: 15 March 2025

Positive Emotionlocked

Positive Emotionlocked

  • Jessica M. BlackJessica M. BlackBoston College

Summary

Scientific findings from social sciences, neurobiology, endocrinology, and immunology highlight the adaptive benefits of positive emotion and activity to both mental and physical health. Positive activity, such as engagement with music and exercise, can also contribute to favorable health outcomes. This article reviews scientific evidence of the adaptive benefits of positive emotion and activity throughout the life course, with examples drawn from the fetal environment through late adulthood. Specifically, the text weaves together theory and empirical findings from an interdisciplinary literature to describe how positive emotion and activity help to build important cognitive, social, and physical resources throughout the life course.

Keywords

Subjects

  • Addictions and Substance Use
  • Aging and Older Adults
  • Children and Adolescents
  • Health Care and Illness
  • Mental and Behavioral Health
  • Social Work Profession

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