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Past and Present Subjective Well-being: the Role of Contrast and Memory

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  • Umakrishnan Kollamparambil

    (University of Witwatersrand)

Abstract

This study is an attempt to analyse the interrelationships between current, past and expected future subjective well-being (SWB) through the intermediating role of memory using the National Income Dynamics Study panel dataset for South Africa. The contribution of this study is in exploring the role of contrast (intertemporal and social) in determining (a) the current levels of SWB and (b) the drivers of recall bias, within a causal framework in the context of a country with low average SWB and high SWB inequality. The results indicate significant presence of hedonic adaptation and reveals past and future contrast as important correlates of current subjective well-being. In addition, a perceived improvement in current happiness from the past is associated with higher levels of current SWB, highlighting the intermediating role of memory. Memory, however, is observed to be biased with only 42% accuracy. Higher levels of current subjective well-being are found to enhance the probability of correct recall of the past. An overall improvement bias is evident among those in the lower segment of the SWB distribution. The results reinforce the hypothesised simultaneous relationships between current SWB, intertemporal contrast and recall behaviour. Furthermore, the differences in our findings from European studies emphasize the relevance of context in driving these relationships.

Suggested Citation

  • Umakrishnan Kollamparambil, 2022. "Past and Present Subjective Well-being: the Role of Contrast and Memory," Applied Research in Quality of Life, Springer;International Society for Quality-of-Life Studies, vol. 17(3), pages 1203-1226, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ariqol:v:17:y:2022:i:3:d:10.1007_s11482-021-09958-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s11482-021-09958-y
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