Researchers reflect on relationships and happiness

A reflective paper by three wellbeing researchers argues that supportive relationships are among the strongest predictors of happiness, while emphasizing that wellbeing also depends on financial security, meaningful activity and how people spend their time. The paper, by Säde Stenlund, Kelsey J. O’Connor and Lara B. Aknin, was published in the Journal of Happiness Studies on August 25, 2026. It draws on a discussion involving 13 international researchers whose combined experience amounts to 600 years. The authors reflect on findings and lessons from the field rather than reporting a new empirical trial. Aknin, a professor of social psychology at Simon Fraser University, said supportive relationships are among the most reliable predictors of happiness. Even having one person to rely on can matter substantially, she said, while connections to more people and communities can strengthen wellbeing further. Several researchers involved in the discussion said they had made a conscious effort to spend more time with loved ones. The account also describes financial security as an important foundation, but says additional income tends to have less influence once basic needs are met....