Study Magnus & Diener (1991): study US 1986

Public

University students, USA, followed 4 years 1986-1990

Sample

Respondents

N = 130

Non Response

Assessment

Multiple assesment methods
Self-report questionnaires, peer reports, and experinece sampling.

Correlate

Authors's Label

Satisfaction with life (SWLS)

Our Classification

Error Estimates

Cronbach's alpha = + . 87, Disattenuated retest correlation = + .62

Remarks

Item E is left out in the selection of valid happiness items because a positive answer to this question does not necessarily mean that the respondent doesn't like the life he/she actually lives.

Operationalization

Selfreport on five questions:

Using the 1-5 scale below, indicate your agreement with each of the items by placing the appropriate number on the line preceding that item. Please be open and honest in your responding.
A  In most ways my life is close to ideal
B  The conditions of my life are excellent
C  I am satisfied with my life
D  So far, I have gotten the important things I want in life
E If I could live my life over, I would change nothing

Answers rated:
5 strongly agree
4 slightly agree
3  neither agree nor disagree
2  slightly disagree
1  strongly disagree

Computation: A+B+C+D+E divided by 5

Name: Shortened Diener's Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS)

Observed Relation with Happiness