Longitudinal data reveals that happiness set points can indeed change, with nearly a quarter of individuals showing significant shifts over time and 9% experiencing major changes. The permanence of these changes often depends on the specific life event. For instance, while people tend to adapt quickly to the happiness boost from marriage, returning to their baseline, they often fail to fully adapt to negative events. Severe circumstances like unemployment, widowhood, or major disabilities can cause substantial and lasting decreases in life satisfaction.