Abstract
Although positive emotions undoubtedly confer benefits, one can have too much of it. There is probably a point beyond which enjoyment interferes with real- ism, yet it is unclear where that point is. The original "States of Mind" (SOM) model (Schwartz and Garamoni, 1986; 1989) proposed that a ratio of (positive) to (positive plus negative) affective/cognitive states (P /(P + N)) of about 0.62 is optimal, but previous research indicated that higher ratios may go with good mental health. The revised "balanced states of mind" (BSOM) model (Schwartz, 1997) suggests a higher cutoff, with ratios above 0.90 being dysfunctional. This paper reports a study of 72 very positive subjects (mean ratio = 0.85) and assessed possible dysfunction by means of questionnaires, role-plays, and physiological responses to induced stress. Signs of dysfunction were no more frequent among the most positive subjects (ratios of 0.90 and above) than among moderately positive subjects. This suggests that there is nothing wrong with the high levels of happiness in present day society. As yet, it is still not established how much more happiness will be too much. One possibility is that standard cognition/emotion measures need to be revised in order to detect truly excessive positivity in a sensitive manner.
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