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Being part of groups can affect people in both negative and positive ways.   For instance if we are with groups of people who share similar interests with ourselves such as have the same outlook on life, have similar hobbies or values we will tend to feel a sense of belonging and therefore feel that we are part of the ‘in-group’ (Spoors et all (2010 p.43 introduction to psychology) the reverse can happen where we feel we are part of the ‘out –group’ (Spoors et all (2010 p.43 introduction to psychology) when we are in the company of others who have interests that our different to ours or who have opposite morals and values to ourselves.

Researchers have suggested that people living in economically developing countries where lack of economic wealth is less prevalent than in the developed countries may enjoy greater levels of happiness and contentment.
(Peter Forster 2006), cited in Spoors et all) explains about a pacific island nation of Vanuatu to be the happiest place on earth
Vanuatu is a very poor country (yet the people) …have very strong social support systems within their villages and extended families. When they are fit and healthy they work for their community. When they go through hard times they are supported by others. It is very striking when walking around Vanuatu, just how many strangers smile, wave and greed you as you go by…if the processes of urbanisation (mainly people moving from other islands to the capital in search of money and jobs) continues, which disrupts their traditional sources of support and their family and communal relationships…..their happiness will decline (Spoors et all 2010 p.111)

In this example it indicates that not always luxury items that we take for granted such as television sets, cars, and a big house alone can be enough to make us happy. By having support from our family and friends through hard times can help make us feel wanted, happy and altogether more positive.

Lanyard (2005) cited a story about Bhutan a...