Happiness Economics: An Empirical Study of the Relationship between Personal Happiness and Economic Contribution among Young and Middle-Aged Adults

Abstract

Happiness economics is an emerging field of study that examines how economic conditions influence the overall well-being and life satisfaction of individuals. The present study investigates the relationship between personal happiness and economic contribution among young adults and middle-aged adults. The research is based on primary data collected from 50 respondents through a structured questionnaire, and the data were analysed using percentage analysis and simple statistical interpretation. The study considers both economic factors such as income stability, financial independence and contribution to household income, as well as non-economic factors including work-life balance, stress levels, family relationships and social participation. The findings reveal that although financial security plays an important role in reducing stress and ensuring stability, income alone does not determine an individual ‘s level of happiness. Social support, mental well-being and balanced personal life were also found to be significantly influence the overall happiness. The results further indicate that middle-aged adults generally contribute more to household income compared to young adults, while both groups report moderate to high levels of life satisfaction. Overall, the study highlights that happiness is multidimensional and influenced by a combination of economic and social factors. These findings support the perspective in happiness economics that improving quality of life requires more than economic growth alone.