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on Economics of Happiness |
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Issue of 2026–01–26
six papers chosen by Viviana Di Giovinazzo, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca |
| By: | Torbjorn Hanson; Ashild Johnsen; Andreas Kotsadam; Alberto Prati |
| Abstract: | We report the results from a large field experiment that tests if happiness spreads within an organizational setting, as predicted by the emotional contagion hypothesis. Although some studies have supported this hypothesis, no well-powered randomized controlled trial has ever tested it in the field. In collaboration with the Norwegian Armed Forces, we randomly assign over 1, 500 recruits to rooms during eight-week boot camps. Some recruits live with relatively happier peers while others live with relatively unhappier ones. We find no evidence of happiness convergence at the room level and reject even small contagion effects. We show that this result is not because happiness is overly stable and that peer effects do emerge for some attitudes in non-emotional domains. These results call for a reconsideration of the presumed ubiquity of happiness spillovers, with subsequent implications for well-being models and policies. |
| Keywords: | happiness, subjective wellbeing, emotional contagion, field experiment, RCT |
| Date: | 2026–01–21 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cep:cepdps:dp2144 |
| By: | Serrano Bellido, Álvaro |
| Abstract: | In this paper, we analyze the relationship between telework and the mental health of workers in Austria, focusing specifically on depression, work–life balance, and subjective well-being. To do so, we use data from the 2021 European Working Conditions Survey (EWCS) and estimate several econometric models (linear probability models, ordinary least squares, and logit models) in order to assess the significance of the effects of telework on these indicators of individual well-being. The results show that, once sociodemographic and job-related controls are applied, telework does not exhibit a direct and robust effect on either subjective well-being or the probability of suffering from depression. In the case of work–life balance, telework initially appears to generate negative effects; however, after incorporating sociodemographic and labor controls, this significance disappears. Overall, therefore, the evidence suggests that the effects of telework on workers’ individual well-being depend more on labor and personal conditions than on the teleworking modality itself. This reinforces the importance of a contextualized analysis and is consistent with the findings of the existing literature. |
| Keywords: | Teletrabajo, depresión, bienestar subjetivo, conciliación laboral, salud mental. |
| JEL: | D69 I1 I3 J4 |
| Date: | 2026–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:127620 |
| By: | Mateos Cendrero, Juan Diego |
| Abstract: | The rapid expansion of teleworking in the Czech Republic following the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the debate regarding its impact on employee wellbeing. This study aims to analyze the relationship between teleworking and various dimensions of personal health, specifically focusing on general wellbeing, mental health (depression), and work-life balance. Using microdata from the 2021 European Working Conditions Telephone Survey (EWCTS), the research employs linear and non-linear (logit) econometric models to test whether telework acts as a significant determinant of these dimensions. The empirical results show that teleworking does not have a direct or robust effect on general wellbeing or the probability of depression once sociodemographic and labour characteristics are controlled. Furthermore, while partial telework initially appears to improve work-life balance in basic models, this effect loses statistical significance when introducing additional controls such as working hours and the nature of the job. The findings suggest that the potential benefits of remote work are highly dependent on job quality, workload, and organizational context rather than the work modality itself. |
| Keywords: | teleworking, wellbeing, mental health, work-life balance, Czech Republic, COVID-19. |
| JEL: | D60 J01 |
| Date: | 2026–01–19 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:127773 |
| By: | Gracia Velilla, Sara |
| Abstract: | This paper analyses the effects of teleworking on the well-being of the Polish population in 2021. The study does not focus only on well-being, but also attempts to estimate the effect on depression and work-life balance among the population under study. For this purpose, data from the European Working Conditions Surveys (EWCS) for 2021 were used, considering demographic variables in the regression models. The findings of this study show that teleworking had a negative effect on the general well-being of the population and significantly increased symptoms of depression. On the other hand, no statistical significance was found in the effects of teleworking on a good work-life balance, with the most relevant explanatory variables being the presence of children and the workload, measured in hours worked. However, it is important to note that the explanatory power of these models is limited, so the estimates made do not capture the most relevant explanatory factors. Once this clarification has been made, the results obtained in this study suggest that teleworking has had negative consequences on mental health in Poland in 2021, especially for women. |
| Keywords: | Telework; Well-being; Mental health; Depression; Work-life balance; Poland; European Working Conditions Survey (EWCS); Gender differences; 2021 |
| JEL: | I12 J1 J2 J8 |
| Date: | 2026–01–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:127621 |
| By: | Elena Bassoli (ETH Zürich - Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology [Zürich]); Mathieu Lefebvre (BETA - Bureau d'Économie Théorique et Appliquée - AgroParisTech - UNISTRA - Université de Strasbourg - Université de Haute-Alsace (UHA) - Université de Haute-Alsace (UHA) Mulhouse - Colmar - UL - Université de Lorraine - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - INRAE - Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement); Jérôme Schoenmaeckers (ULiège - Université de Liège = University of Liège = Universiteit van Luik = Universität Lüttich) |
| Abstract: | In this paper, we present estimates of the effect of different care settings on health and well-being outcomes. We use data from the French CARE Survey, which interviews individuals aged 60 and above, to assess the differential effect of living at home or in a nursing home on mortality, morbidity and well-being indicators. In addition, we differentiate the effect between for-profit and non-profit nursing homes. To do so, we apply a propensity score matching approach that controls for selection on observables by matching people living at home with those living in nursing homes. Our results are threefold. First, we observe a positive effect of being in a nursing home on health outcomes but a negative effect on other well-being indicators such as happiness and nervousness. Second, the ownership status of the nursing home matters and the positive effect is stronger for non-profit and public nursing homes. Third, residents in for-profit nursing homes appear to to be worse off than those in nonprofit institutions. These findings raise important questions for the future organization and the funding of long-term care. |
| Keywords: | Private vs public, Care, Propensity score matching, Nursing homes, Health outcomes |
| Date: | 2025–09–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05460270 |
| By: | Centeno Clara (European Commission - JRC); Leiputė Beatričė; Langham Ella; Kampylis Panagiotis; Monge Roffarello Alberto; Hillman Velislava; Gausas Simonas; Svedkauskiene A. |
| Abstract: | This study examines the integration of well-being principles into digital education within the European Union, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive policies that prioritize Well-being in Digital Education (WBDE). The research highlights the critical need for balanced use of digital technologies, advocating for age-appropriate and purposeful integration to mitigate negative impacts on physical, psychological, and social well-being. Key considerations such as data privacy, safety, and accessibility as well as promoting positive social interactions are identified as essential design elements that support learner well-being. The persistent digital divide emerges as a significant barrier, with recommendations to address disparities in digital competences and access to technology. The study underscores the effectiveness of a whole-school approach combined with community involvement, fostering a shared responsibility among school leaders, educators, learners, parents, and the community. Collaboration among stakeholders, including policymakers and EdTech providers, is essential to develop strategies that integrate well-being principles into both school and home environments. This research suggests that through integrated policies, mindful technology use, and collaborative efforts, educational systems can create supportive, inclusive, and well-rounded digital learning environments. |
| Date: | 2025–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc144412 |