In an attempt to distinguish between different types of workrelated
well-being, Bakker and Oerlemans (2011) have developed a
theoretical model within the context of a more general circumplex
model of affect (Russell, 1980). The circumplex model postulates that
the underlying structure of affective experiences can be characterized
by two fundamental neurophysiological systems, one related to a
pleasure–displeasure continuum and the other to arousal or
activation. Each emotional state can be defined as a combination of
these two dimensions as varying degrees of both pleasure and
activation. Accordingly, positive indicators of well-being would be
job satisfaction (high levels of pleasure and low levels of activation),
and work engagement (high levels of pleasure and activation).
Happiness at work would imply to experience high levels of pleasure
and moderate levels of activation (Bakker & Daniels, 2012;
Xanthopoulou et al., 2012).