Obesity and Happiness

Marina-Selini Katsaiti ()

No 2009-44, Working papers from University of Connecticut, Department of Economics

Abstract: This paper provides insight on the relationship between individual obesity and happiness levels. Using the latest available panel data from Germany (GSOEP), UK (BHPS), and Australia (HILDA), we examine whether there is statistical evidence on the impact of overweight on subjective well being. Instrumental variable analysis is utilized under the presence of endogeneity, stemming from several explanatory variables. Results indicate that in all three countries obesity has a negative effect on the subjective well being of individuals. The results also have important implications for the effect of other socio-demographic, economic and individual characteristics on well being.

Keywords: Happiness; Obesity; Instrumental Variable Analysis; Subjective Well Being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D60 I31 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 29 pages
Date: 2009-10, Revised 2011-04
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-hap, nep-hea and nep-ltv
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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https://media.economics.uconn.edu/working/2009-44R.pdf Full text (revised version) (application/pdf)
https://media.economics.uconn.edu/working/2009-44.pdf Full text (original version) (application/pdf)

Related works:
Journal Article: Obesity and happiness (2012)
Working Paper: Obesity and Happiness (2010)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:uct:uconnp:2009-44

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