According to Coupons.com, and Dr. Paul J. Zak, Professor of Neuroeconomics at Claremont Graduate University, the results of a recent study, combined with the findings of other research, suggest that coupons can directly impact happiness of people, promote positive health, and increase the ability to handle stressful situations. Dr. Zak’s team looked at the neurologic effects of couponing to find out what really happens when people receive a savings offer, such as a coupon or coupon code. The scientific research, says the report, shows that oxytocin, a hormone that is directly related to love and happiness, spikes when people receive a coupon. And, in fact, increases more than when people receive a gift. The data shows that coupons make consumers happier and more relaxed. During the study, some participants received a $10 coupon while grocery shopping online while others did not. The findings, says the report, show that women who received coupons during the study had significantly higher levels of oxytocin and dramatically reduced stress. Key findings include: Higher Oxytocin Levels. Up 38%, this marked response is higher than levels associated with kissing, cuddling and other social interactions related to this hormone that is known to be associated with happiness. Decreased Stress. Coupons were associated with reductions in several different measures of stress in the heart, skin, and breathing in those who received a coupon over those who did not. Specifically: