Economics

Exploring the promoting effect of working time reduction on life satisfaction using Germany as a case study

Q. Shao

This research by Qinglong Shao explores how reducing working hours can enhance life satisfaction in Germany. Using data from the European Social Survey, it reveals that shorter work weeks lead to higher life satisfaction, with health as a key mediating factor. Policy recommendations include regulating working hours and considering gender differences.

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Playback language: English

Index

Abstract

This article investigates the impact of working time reduction on life satisfaction in Germany using data from the European Social Survey (ESS). An ordered probit model reveals a significantly negative correlation between working time and life satisfaction, indicating that shorter working weeks improve life satisfaction. Health acts as a mediating variable in the worktime-health-life satisfaction nexus, accounting for approximately 28% of the satisfaction variance. High-earners prefer longer hours, while low-earners prefer shorter hours; middle-earners show no preference. Cross-partner effects are also observed. Policy implications suggest limiting working hours and implementing strict overtime compensation regulations, while considering gender differences.

Publisher

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Published On

Dec 17, 2022

Authors

Qinglong Shao

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