Elizabeth Dunn: Helping others makes us happier -- but it matters how we do it

The video explores the study of happiness, focusing on the joy derived from giving. It presents research showing that giving increases happiness, even in toddlers, and highlights global surveys supporting this. The speaker shares a personal story of sponsoring a refugee family, emphasizing the importance of connection in charitable acts. Community programs like 'Plenty of Plates' are discussed, showcasing their role in fostering connections. The video concludes by urging a shift in how we perceive giving, viewing it as a source of joy rather than just a moral duty.

What was the main focus of the speaker's research on happiness?

• The joy derived from giving to others

• The role of diet in mental health

• The effects of meditation on stress

• The impact of exercise on happiness

In the experiments with toddlers, what was the key finding?

• Toddlers were equally happy whether they gave or kept the crackers

• Toddlers showed no interest in the experiment

• Toddlers were happier when they gave away goldfish crackers

• Toddlers preferred to keep all the goldfish crackers

What did global surveys reveal about giving and happiness?

• Giving to charity increased happiness, similar to having double the income

• Only wealthy individuals felt happier after giving

• People who gave money to charity were less happy

• Giving money to charity had no impact on happiness

What is the Group of Five program?

• A Canadian initiative to privately sponsor refugee families

• A program to sponsor local businesses

• A government scheme for tax benefits

• A charity focused on environmental conservation

How did the Group of Five experience affect the speaker's view on giving?

• It made them more skeptical about charitable work

• It reinforced the importance of direct involvement in charity

• It discouraged them from participating in future programs

• It had no impact on their perspective

What enhances the emotional benefits of giving, according to the speaker's research?

• Giving to well-known charities

• Donating large sums of money

• Seeing the direct impact of donations

• Giving anonymously

Why did the speaker find the Spread the Net charity more effective than UNICEF?

• It offered a concrete promise for donations

• It was a smaller organization

• It had more celebrity endorsements

• It had a more appealing logo

What is the main message the speaker wants to convey about charitable giving?

• Giving should be seen as a moral obligation

• Charitable giving is only for the wealthy

• Giving can be a source of joy and connection

• Charitable giving is outdated

What is the purpose of the Plenty of Plates program?

• To sell meals at a discounted rate

• To provide free meals and foster connections

• To offer cooking classes to the community

• To distribute food to local restaurants

How does the speaker suggest charities should reward donors?

• With pens and calendars

• With public recognition

• By showing the impact of their donations

• With tax deductions