Seulki Kim, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, coauthored a study that was published in Journal of Happiness Studies. The study provides insight how people's feelings about inequality can affect their happiness and life satisfaction—and how strong social connections can help.
The researchers examined how people respond when they feel they are treated unfairly because of their social or economic status and found that those who felt more affected by inequality reported lower levels of well-being. However, support from family and friends, close relationships with neighbors, and trust in others were all linked to better well-being. They also found differences between generations.
As the work to reduce inequality continues, strengthening social ties and promoting a sense of belonging may improve people's quality of life.
The study was coauthored with Jae-woo Kim of Jeonbuk National University.
