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Satisfaction and Happiness

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Citation Classics from Social Indicators Research

Part of the book series: Social Indicators Research Series ((SINS,volume 26))

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Abstract

I review the recent literature on satisfaction and happiness, identify some plausible next steps to take at the frontiers of the research field and offer some suggestions to facilitate those steps. Using partial correlation techniques, substantial levels of covariation are found among the variables that are used in predictions of satisfaction and happiness with life as a whole from satisfaction with specific domains (e.g. family life, health). Using path analysis, confirmation is found in a dozen domains for a model which has satisfaction as a function of a perceived goal-achievement gap, and the latter as a function of comparisons with previous best experience and the status of average folks. Using discriminant analysis, satisfaction with family life is found to be a powerful and predominant discriminator among three groups, identified as Frustrated (dissatisfied and unhappy), Resigned (satisfied and unhappy) and Achievers (satisfied and happy).

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  1. University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada

    Alex C. Michalos

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  1. University of Northern British Columbia, Canada

    Alex C. Michalos

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Michalos, A.C. (2005). Satisfaction and Happiness. In: Michalos, A.C. (eds) Citation Classics from Social Indicators Research. Social Indicators Research Series, vol 26. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/1-4020-3742-2_10

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