EVOLUTIONARY THEORIES OF EMOTIONAL STATES AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract: This review is an exploration of evolutionary theories with the aim to investigate emotional states, well-being and ill-being from an evolutionary perspective. Functional evolutionary theories of emotional states, posit that emotions have evolved as behavior modifiers responding to specific situations that provided fitness benefits in our ancestral past. Exploring this theory gradually uncover clues towards practical, hands-on suggestions as to how to increase life satisfaction and quality of life. Specifically, these suggestions include interacting with kin, reaping stress-reducing and health effects from letting nature be a part of your life, developing deep friendships, and not comparing yourself with the best or most successful individuals in the world.