Based on the principles of how individuals adjust to new emotional circumstances, what is the most likely prediction for Maria's level of happiness two years after winning the lottery? Explain your reasoning.

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Emotional adaptation is the process by which individuals adjust to new emotional circumstances following significant life events, a phenomenon similar to sensory adaptation. Initially, an event triggers an intense emotional reaction, such as a surge of pleasure from a positive event like a marriage proposal or a wave of misery from a negative one like a divorce. Over the long run, however, the emotional impact of the event tends to erode, and the individual's happiness level typically reverts to its original baseline.

Emotional Adaptation to Life Events

A year ago, Maria won a major lottery prize, which initially caused a significant spike in her happiness. According to the process by which individuals adjust to new emotional circumstances over time, which of the following best predicts Maria's current level of happiness?

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