We all know that the materialism he is not a good advisor, especially if we are looking for happiness. In fact, numerous studies have confirmed the negative effects of materialism on our well-being. But now research conducted at Michigan State University has revealed that materialism also affects our perception of negative events and can be one of the causes of depression. These psychologists have found that materialism is not only the antithesis of individual well-being, but it also has a side effect that we should avoid: it amplifies traumatic events, whether it be an illness or a road accident. In other words, it makes life appear worse than it really is.Materialism dyes our life gray
The researchers looked at soldiers suffering from PTSD and found that those with a more materialistic world view not only exhibited more severe symptoms, but also reacted worse to alleged terrorist threats, showing an anxiety level a Basically, if you are materialistic and suddenly your life takes an unexpected turn, you will need more time to recover from the setback. Everything seems to indicate that problems have a stronger impact on people who have materialistic values, because they exert a sort of multiplier effect on the negative aspects of the situation.Why is materialism not a good advisor for dealing with problems?
1. Promote ineffective strategies for dealing with problems. Low self-esteem lies at the root of materialism. People who do not have a high regard for themselves are afraid to look within, they prefer to concentrate on material things. Obviously, many of these people do not have the psychological tools necessary to cope with stress, so they end up using materialistic strategies that do not solve the problem at its root.The typical example is that of a person who has had an argument with his partner and , to relieve stress, she decides to go shopping or take refuge in the kitchen. Both choices help to get distracted for a moment but they don't solve the problem, they just hide it. Consequently, when the problem recurs it is usually greater, because it is accompanied by new difficulties.2. Create a feeling of permanent insecurity. If we believe that success and happiness depend exclusively on external factors, we will always be at the mercy of situations, and this creates great uncertainty. Therefore, materialism was associated with a strong sense of insecurity. In fact, research conducted at Ohio State University revealed that the most insecure people are also those who have a greater tendency to materialism.Obviously, if you think that the solution of problems is not up to you and you don't trust your abilities, it will be difficult for you to see life with optimism. Therefore, materialistic people feel more easily overwhelmed by problems. It is simply a matter of perspective.
3. Generates depression and intensifies the feeling of loneliness. Focusing on material possessions and social status can lead to depression and intensifies the feeling of loneliness. A study conducted at Northwestern University revealed that, regardless of personality characteristics, assuming a materialistic lifestyle ends up creating problems and negatively affects our interpersonal relationships, increasing the level of depression. And depression can also cause serious physical problems, just think of the relationship between depression and diabetes.Undoubtedly, depression does not help develop a more positive outlook on life, nor does it motivate us to discover the life lessons hidden in the negative events that happen to us. On the contrary, those who cultivate their interpersonal relationships and take care of their personal growth, privilege experiences over material goods, in doing so they are more satisfied with their lives. In any case, always remember that "those who have more are not rich, but who needs less ".
