Glossary / Lexicon

Hedonism: refers to the idea held by the classical school, that people only act according to what they find pleasurable and in their self-interest. Hedonism refers to a philosophical doctrine maintaining that sensory pleasure is the goal of life; the ethical doctrine holding that only what is pleasant or has pleasant consequences is intrinsically good.

In Psychology, Hedonism refers to the doctrine holding that behavior is motivated by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of pain; the belief that the good life consists of seeking pleasure and avoiding pain;

Likewise, Hedonism refers to a pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses.

Description

Hedonism in psychology refers to the belief that pleasure and happiness are the ultimate goals in life. This perspective emphasizes seeking pleasure and avoiding pain as the primary motivators for human behavior. In hedonism, individuals prioritize immediate gratification and satisfying their desires over long-term consequences. It can be linked to the idea of maximizing pleasure and minimizing suffering in various aspects of life. It also involves the pursuit of personal happiness and well-being, often at the expense of other values or responsibilities. Hedonism can influence decision-making, relationships, and overall life satisfaction.

Application Areas

• Consumer behavior
• Addiction research
• Behavioral economics
• Positive psychology
• Motivation studies

Treatment and Risks

• Risks: Hedonism may lead to impulsive behavior, addiction, and negative outcomes in the long run.
• Treatment: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and setting long-term goals can help individuals manage hedonistic tendencies.

Examples

• An individual engages in excessive partying to seek momentary pleasure without considering the consequences.
• Someone constantly seeks new experiences and thrills to satisfy their hedonistic urges.
• A person prioritizes personal enjoyment over fulfilling work obligations and relationships.

Similar Concepts and Synonyms

• Epicureanism
• Subjective well-being
• Pleasure principle
• Happiness maximization

Articles with 'Hedonism' in the title

• Hedonism REBT: Hedonism REBT refers to a philosophical term referring to the concept of seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. In REBT, responsible Hedonism refers to maintaining pleasure over the long-term by avoiding short-term pleasures that may lead to p . . .

Summary

Hedonism in psychology focuses on the pursuit of pleasure and happiness as the core objectives in life, often prioritizing immediate gratification over long-term considerations. This belief system impacts various aspects of behavior, decision-making, and overall well-being, but it can also pose risks such as impulsive behavior and addiction. By understanding hedonism and employing appropriate treatment strategies, individuals can learn to balance pleasure-seeking tendencies with long-term goals and responsibilities.

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