A Short Introduction to Subjective Well-being: Measurement, Correlates and Policy Uses

Abstract

Since the emergence of the field over five decades ago, the subjective well-being (SWB; e.g. self-reported happiness or life satisfaction) literature has progressed rapidly. This overview discusses the state of the art in the measurement of SWB, the understanding of the factors determining SWB, and some uses of SWB in policy. Three broad conclusions emerge. First, SWB measures are meaningful in the sense that they are able to provide valid and reliable information on how well people and societies as a whole are doing. Second, a broad range of factors is found to correlate with or be a causal factor in SWB, both at the level of individuals and that of countries. Finally, SWB data can help shape and appraise policy. In several areas our knowledge is still limited, but the most recent and future research promises to secure further the usefulness of SWB research, not least in policy applications.

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