The importance of relational goods for happiness: Evidence from manizales, colombia

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the importance of relational goods in people’s lives as well as their impact on subjective well-being in urban Manizales, Colombia. To achieve that purpose, data from the local Quality of Life Survey (QLS) is used. Specifically happiness among heads of households or their partners is analyzed and compared with the availability of, or access to, different relational goods. Results confirm findings from studies around the world, namely that relational goods, in particular those created through the interaction of family members, are among the most important determinants of subjective well-being.