In the most recent issue of Psychology Today (April 2011), author Lauren Sandler explores today’s growing disillusionment in the American Dream. The article’s tagline sums it up nicely: “We have everything the American Dream prescribed. So why aren’t we happy?”
The American Dream, as described by Sandler, includes getting married, having children and working long hours to afford a sprawling home in the suburbs. However, even after achieving everything that’s supposed to lead to an idyllic existence, Sandler suggests that people are not happier. The article sites studies suggesting that Americans have become more depressed in the last 25 years, while in 19 out of 26 other countries in the world, the overall contentment levels have increased. Married people seem to be unhappier than those who are single and people with children suffer from depression and unhappiness at higher rates than those who do not. Additionally, that big house in the suburbs may actually be causing social isolation that leads to unhappiness.
The article states that the dissatisfaction may arise from the unrealistic expectations that come with the American Dream. We believe that our marriages are going to be blissful, our children will be angels and the suburban lifestyle will be wonderfully satisfying. Striving for this total perfection will inevitably lead to disappointment. However, if we modify our expectations to something more realistic, the American Dream can become the fulfilling idea it was meant to be.
Read the article “American Nightmare” in the latest issue of Psychology Today.
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