A lifespan perspective on stress and happiness: a qualitative metaphor analysis of young and older adults

Abstract

This study examines the metaphorical perceptions of ‘stress’ and ‘happiness’ among older and younger individuals. The sample consisted of 367 participants (185 young adults and 182 older adults). Data were collected through a structured form including sociodemographic questions and open-ended prompts (e.g., “Stress is like… because…”; “Happiness is like… because…”). Metaphors were analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify recurring thematic patterns. Among older individuals, the most frequently used metaphors for stress were illness , loneliness , and pain , while metaphors for happiness included health , family , money , and prayer . In contrast, younger individuals most commonly associated stress with illness , sadness , anxiety , and fear , whereas happiness was metaphorically linked to chocolate , butterflies , and peace . The findings suggest that older individuals’ metaphorical perceptions of stress and happiness tend to be more enduring and grounded in quality-of-life factors such as health, social ties, and spirituality. In contrast, younger individuals’ perceptions tended to be more emotionally driven and shaped by personal, immediate life experiences. This study contributes to understanding subjective well-being through age-related differences and provides implications for the development of age-appropriate psychological interventions.