JOURNAL ARTICLE

Animal Joy.

  • Published In: Science News, 2026, v. 208, n. 2. P. 32 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Dance, Amber 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the scientific efforts to measure positive emotions, particularly joy, in nonhuman animals, a topic that has historically been overlooked in favor of studying negative emotions. Researchers are developing a "joy-o-meter" to quantify happiness across various species, including great apes, dolphins, and parrots. The project aims to establish reliable metrics for positive affect, which could enhance the understanding of animal welfare and potentially inform insights into human happiness. Initial findings suggest that behaviors such as laughter-like sounds in rats and playful interactions in bonobos and keas may indicate joy, although challenges remain in accurately measuring and interpreting these emotions. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Science News. 2026/02, Vol. 208, Issue 2, p32
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0036-8423
  • Accession Number:190728388
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