145;Sex and browsing makes Aussie men happy146;

Sex topped among five activity that made men happy and surfing the Internet topped even that at number three. Sex and surfing also emerged as top ten choices for women that made them happy, but enjoying a family meal and playing with pets or children ranked much higher.

Eating comfort food scored in the top 10 for both sexes, but the more discerning men questioned said they preferred great food and wine or drinking with friends to reaching for the chocolate.

Only 14 per cent of men were happiest when shopping while 30 per cent of women enjoyed shopping as well. One in two women said reading a good book made them happy whereas less than one in three men said the same, and 36 per cent of generous-natured women said buying gifts made them feel joyful, compared to a miserly 19 per cent of men.

The index was compiled by marketing consultants The Leading Edge who spoke to more than 8500 Australians aged between 18 and 64.

8220;Australians are made happy on a week-to-week basis, not by possessions and achievements, but by entertaining experiences and by meaningful interactions with others,8221; The Leading Edge managing director Karen Phillips said.

The index has been designed as a marketing tool to give businesses a better picture of their target customers.