A comparison of your better life index and its antecedents across two Chinese cultures

Abstract

OECD identified 11 topics in Your Better Life Index (YBLI). YBLI is generally accepted as an essential indicator of material living conditions and quality of life. This study compared YBLI in two predominantly Chinese regions (i.e., Macau [a former Portuguese territory in China] and Zhuhai in the Greater Bay Area in the southern part of the People's Republic of China). Data were collected from 446 (231 Macau and 215 Zhuhai) ethnic Chinese residents in the two regions. Results revealed the Macau residents to be much more satisfied with life (significantly higher ratings on more YBLI topics) than their Zhuhai counterparts. Regression analyses revealed Chinese values and family emotional support to be strong predictors of YBLI in Zhuhai, while future prospects and self-efficacy explained most variance for YBLI in Macau. The results of the comparisons are discussed in terms of seminaries and differences in the cultures and economic development of the regions.