it might be because of the media as well, we often see adverts of people eating sweets and then smiling and being happy, we see adverts like this all the time so I imagine a lot of people would start to link consumerism with happiness

yes because the average american totally have lots more money than other typical 1st world people

Sarcasm doesn't work when your sarcastic statement is actually true.

2010 USA was on 7th place on the BNP/capita PPP.
and it isnt like USA's economy have gotten any better the last few years

And by that I mean, sure, we aren't the wealthiest, but with what money we do have, there are far too many conveniences people take advantage of.

That is the most idiotic statement I've ever heard. Have you been to every other country? No, I don't think you have. So you can't pass that judgment

We do blame the individuals, but there are too many of them.