Work

How income inequality affects the subjective well-being of rural residents?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Since the initiation of economic reforms and opening-up, China's economy has achieved remarkable growth, leading to a significant improvement in the standard of living for its people. However, the trickle-down effect of this growth has not been equitably distributed across all segments of society. This study attempts to analyze the subjective well-being (SWB) of Chinese rural residents using data from the 2021 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS). An ordered probit (OProbit) model is constructed to investigate the impact of income inequality on the subjective well-being of Chinese rural residents. The findings reveal three key insights: (1) the benchmark regression demonstrates a significant negative impact of income inequality on the subjective well-being of Chinese rural residents. (2) Social mentality emerges as a critical mediating channel through which income inequality undermines subjective well-being. (3) The impact of income inequality on subjective well-being varied significantly depending on factors such as age, gender, and marital status. As enhancing well-being gains increasing recognition as a central goal in global public health policy, the findings of this study provide valuable insights for designing policies aimed at improving subjective well-being, particularly in rural contexts.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1496764

Authors: Chuyue Guo, Fusheng Zeng, Dongping Xia

Institution: Hunan Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Psychological Well-being and Life Satisfaction

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, No poverty, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801