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Non-linearity, Complexity and Limited Measurement in the Relationship Between Satisfaction with Specific Life Domains and Satisfaction with Life as a Whole

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Abstract

In this article we defend that the adoption of a non-linear approach, theoretically framed on complexity theories can make some contribution to the bottom-up approach, which explains the levels of satisfaction with life as a whole through the combination of the levels of satisfaction in different life domains. Two approaches have been tested: (Rojas in J Happiness Stud 7:467–497, 2006) constant elasticity of substitution model and the model with quadratic terms and interaction effects (González et al. in Soc Indic Res 80:267–295, 2006; González et al. in Qual Quant 42:1–21, 2008). In order to prevent obtaining false non-linear relationships they have been analysed twice taking into account or not limited measurement of satisfaction with life as a whole. Results show that: (a) any of the two non-linear models fits better than the linear one; (b) any of the models failing to take into account limited measurement fits worse; (c) the non-linear model with quadratic terms and interaction effects fits better than Rojas’. The implications for the study of psychological well-being are discussed.

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Acknowledgments

Financial support for the data collection used in this article was provided by the Catalan Audiovisual Council. The comments made by Mariano Rojas have enormously contributed to the improving of the paper.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Economics, Quality of Life Research Institute, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, 17071, Girona, Spain

    Mònica González, Germà Coenders, Marc Saez & Ferran Casas

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  1. Mònica González
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  2. Germà Coenders
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  3. Marc Saez
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  4. Ferran Casas
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Correspondence to Mònica González.

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González, M., Coenders, G., Saez, M. et al. Non-linearity, Complexity and Limited Measurement in the Relationship Between Satisfaction with Specific Life Domains and Satisfaction with Life as a Whole. J Happiness Stud 11, 335–352 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-009-9143-8

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