Life Satisfaction Responds to Major Life Events; Affect not so much

Arie Kapteyn, Francisco Perez-Arce (), Evan W. Sandlin and Arthur A. Stone
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Arie Kapteyn: University of Southern California, Center for Economic and Social Research
Francisco Perez-Arce: University of Southern California, Center for Economic and Social Research
Evan W. Sandlin: University of Southern California, Center for Economic and Social Research
Arthur A. Stone: University of Southern California, Center for Economic and Social Research

Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, 2025, vol. 180, issue 3, No 18, 1747-1763

Abstract: Abstract This study examines how major life events influence subjective well-being, focusing on differences between life satisfaction and momentary affect. Using Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) data from a nationally representative panel of adults aged 50 and older, we analyze responses to significant life events, including health issues, financial shocks, and bereavements. Participants reported their wellbeing during baseline “random bursts” and subsequent “triggered bursts” following life events. Results reveal that while life satisfaction exhibits significant changes in response to these events, momentary affect remains largely unaffected, with smaller or statistically insignificant effects. Notably, the impacts of participant age and the day of the week on momentary affect exceeded those of life events. These findings support the “focusing hypothesis,” suggesting that while life satisfaction may adapt to significant circumstances, day-to-day emotional experiences are more resilient.

Keywords: Life satisfaction; Momentary affect; Subjective well-being; Life events; Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA); Evaluative well-being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11205-025-03724-5

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