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Differences in and drivers of mental, social, functional, and financial well-being during COVID-19: Evidence from Australia, France, Germany, and South Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Arvid Hoffmann
  • Daria Plotkina
  • Marie-Hélène Broihanne
  • Anja Göritz
  • Stefanie Kleimeier

Abstract

COVID-19 has a substantial and unexpected impact on individuals’ daily life around the world. Unprecedented public health restrictions such as lockdowns have the potential to affect multiple dimensions of individuals’ well-being, while the severity of such restrictions varies across countries. However, a holistic perspective comparing differences in and drivers of the different dimensions of well-being across countries differentially affected by COVID-19 is missing to date. We address this gap in the literature by examining the mental, social, functional, and financial well-being of 2,100 individuals across Australia, France, Germany, and South Africa by means of a survey administered during May of 2021. Supporting our holistic approach, we find that the different dimensions of well-being are correlated, with survey respondents from France reporting the lowest and those from Australia reporting the highest overall level of well-being. Respondents’ subjective and objective evaluations of their living conditions during lockdowns as well as positive health and financial behaviors are positively associated with their well-being during the pandemic.

Suggested Citation

  • Arvid Hoffmann & Daria Plotkina & Marie-Hélène Broihanne & Anja Göritz & Stefanie Kleimeier, 2022. "Differences in and drivers of mental, social, functional, and financial well-being during COVID-19: Evidence from Australia, France, Germany, and South Africa," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 17(10), pages 1-21, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0276077
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276077
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    References listed on IDEAS

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