Final answer:
The story 'Mother and Daughter' suggests that while money can provide a foundation for well-being, happiness is a complex phenomenon not solely dependent on financial wealth. Psychological studies and literature reviews support the idea that while money is necessary for comfort and survival, it is not the only factor that contributes to life satisfaction and happiness. Option number C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the story 'Mother and Daughter', the idea that money is the sole determinant of happiness is challenged. While it is evident that economic stability can provide a foundation for well-being, the story reveals that happiness is not singly guaranteed by financial success. The characters within the narrative demonstrate that happiness is complex and multifaceted, influenced by factors such as family dynamics, personal values, and social relationships.
Psychologist David Myers' research highlights the trend among students to pursue higher education as a means to achieve greater wealth, with the assumption that this will lead to happiness. However, the findings, as well as literature, suggest that while money can facilitate comfort and security, it does not necessarily translate to increased happiness. This is supported by Diener and Biswas-Diener's extensive review on money and subjective well-being, which indicates that happiness does not always rise proportionally with income.
Money's role is indeed crucial in everyday transactions and survival, as Ambrose Bierce humorously noted about the importance of money when used to acquire goods and services. Yet, the narrative of 'Mother and Daughter' and the broader literature suggest that happiness encompasses more than financial wealth. Issues within the African American community and familial socialization suggest that while money is necessary, education and nurturing also play critical roles in shaping life satisfaction and success.