Personal and environmental correlates of happiness

This study aimed to evaluate an integrative model of happiness which incorporated personal factors (demographics, extraversion, neuroticism and locus of control) as well as environmental factors (life events and social support). A newly developed general measure of happiness of the Chinese people (CHI) was used to assess happiness. Using systematic random sampling, 494 community residents in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, completed structured questionnaires measuring the above research variables. LISREL analysis showed that social support was an important mediator, which had the strongest association with happiness. Two demographic characteristics, age and gender, had indirect effects on happiness through social support, and so did extraversion. However, neuroticism and locus of control both had direct effects on happiness. These results are discussed in the contexts of the Chinese conceptualization and pursuit of happiness. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.