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Obesity and happiness

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  • Marina Selini Katsaiti

Abstract

This article provides insight on the relationship between individual obesity and happiness levels. Using the latest available panel data from Germany German Socio-Economic Panel (GSOEP), UK British Household Panel Survey (BHPS), and Australia Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA), we examine whether there is statistical evidence on the impact of overweight on subjective well-being. Instrumental Variable (IV) analysis is utilized under the presence of endogeneity, stemming from several explanatory variables. Results indicate that in all three countries obesity has a negative effect on the subjective well-being of individuals. The results also have important implications for the effect of other socio-demographic, economic and individual characteristics on well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Marina Selini Katsaiti, 2012. "Obesity and happiness," Applied Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 44(31), pages 4101-4114, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:applec:44:y:2012:i:31:p:4101-4114
    DOI: 10.1080/00036846.2011.587779
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D60 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - General
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being

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