Happiness in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Literature Review of Factors Influencing It

Abstract

The paper examines the concept of happiness in children and adolescents, focusing on identifying the key factors that influence it. This study synthesizes findings from scientific research published in reputable journals between 2020 and 2024. A qualitative methodology was used, analyzing 42 articles from the Scopus database. Through inductive thematic analysis of the selected articles, several key factors shaping the concept of happiness in children and adolescents were identified. The coding process revealed themes that researchers commonly agree on, including culture, the varying definitions of happiness, and individual and social factors such as family influence, peer relationships, a safe environment, and the role of school. These factors collectively provide a clearer framework for understanding happiness in young people. The study offers insights that contribute to simplifying the measurement of happiness and enhancing future research in this domain, ultimately facilitating a more comprehensive approach to studying the well-being of children and adolescents. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.