Those who indulge in small talks about last night movie or weather may seem perfectly at ease. But happiness is more likely with deep, substantial conversations pondering on the meaning of life, finds an intriguing study.
"Small talk does have a function," said study author Matthias Mehl, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Arizona, Tucson. "For smooth social functioning, we need small talk."
But those who engage in more meaningful conversations are more likely to share a happy well being, Mehl said. "What really connects you to people is substantive, meaningful conversation rather than small talk."
"It doesn't have to be all about philosophy or the afterlife, it just has to have substance," he said.
