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South African quality of life: A research note

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Abstract

A nation-wide survey (n=5587) was conducted in 1982/83 with a view to developing a reliable cross-cultural index of quality of life for South Africa. Findings confirmed the known under-privileged position of blacks relative to other groups in terms of some 60 objective and subjective indicators. Contrary to expectations the results of factor and regression analyses indicated that the linear additive model of quality of life-as-a-whole cannot account for its full complexity. The possibility is considered that more broadly symbolic factors related to relative deprivation may make an independent contribution to perceived overall well-being. In conclusion, a single cross-cultural albeit multi-item measure of South African quality of life is recommended.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre for Social and Development Studies, University of Natal, King George V Avenue, 4001, Durban, Republic of South Africa

    V. Møller & L. Schlemmer

  2. Centre for Policy Studies, University of the Witwatersrand, WITS, PO Box 98, 2050, Republic of South Africa

    V. Møller & L. Schlemmer

Authors
  1. V. Møller
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  2. L. Schlemmer
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Møller, V., Schlemmer, L. South African quality of life: A research note. Soc Indic Res 21, 279–291 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00303787

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00303787

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