The most comprehensive study of adult development began in 1938, when 285 Harvard men were enrolled into a longitudinal study lasting 80 years. This study was the beginning of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which is now under the direction of Robert Waldinger, MD in the Department of Psychiatry at Mass General. The study has expanded to include the children of the original participants and encompasses a rich source of data on the physical, mental, and emotional health of American adults.
When we think of what contributes to good health, we are likely to consider genetic factors, diet, and exercise as the primary drivers of health; however, Dr. Waldinger’s research clearly demonstrates that one of the most important determinants of good health and happiness is having strong social relationships. You can learn more about this research in his TED Talk: What Makes a Good LIfe? Over 41.3 million views…
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Robert Waldinger, MD
Director, Harvard Study of Adult Development
Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
Dr. Robert Waldinger is the Director of the Center for Psychodynamic Therapy and Research at Mass General, Director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, ands Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. The Harvard Study has studied the lives of two groups of men for over 75 years and will go on to study the more than 2000 children of these men to examine how childhood experience affects midlife health and wellbeing. Dr. Waldinger and Marc Schulz, PhD are the authors of The Good Life: Lessons for the Longest Scientific Study of Happiness.
