Life Satisfaction and the Roles of Work, Family, and Social Factors in a Social Production Function Framework

James Chowhan (), Hossein Samavatyan and Farimah HakemZadeh
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James Chowhan: York University
Hossein Samavatyan: University of Isfahan
Farimah HakemZadeh: York University

Journal of Happiness Studies, 2024, vol. 25, issue 1, No 23, 24 pages

Abstract: Abstract Life satisfaction, through the cultivation of happiness and the avoidance of misery, is one of the ultimate outcomes of interest for the public generally. This study uses Social Production Function (SPF) theory to investigate the factors (e.g. endowments, conditions, experiences, and characteristics) impacting life satisfaction. A key contribution of this study is that a comprehensive model is developed, with a focus on the contribution of universal goals of physical well-being and maintenance (i.e. (1) stimulation, (2) comfort) and social approval (i.e. (3) status, (4) behaviour confirmation, and (5) affection) to life satisfaction; further, the factors include family, work, or social domains, with a focus on both working and non-working populations (working age (25 to 64), n = 12,022). Within a multivariate framework, using cross-sectional survey data, the key findings reveal the substantive roles of social class, having work, being married, being satisfied with personal appearance, being part of community, having good health, and available leisure time in contributing to life satisfaction. Emerging implications suggest that personal decisions over behaviours and actions that optimize resources can be associated with higher levels of life satisfaction, and there are possible roles for employers and governments in enabling individual behaviour and action, while minimizing constraints and maximizing choice options, which could all work toward empowering individuals to pursue their happiness.

Keywords: Subjective well-being; Pursuit of happiness; Physical attractiveness; Satisfaction; Dependable friends; Stress; Personal-life; Choice (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s10902-024-00739-6

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