Unlocking the Secrets to Women’s Happiness: Insights and Discoveries
Unlocking the Secrets to Women’s Happiness: Insights and Discoveries
Several years ago, Denmark was recognized as the best country for women at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Sweden and Canada followed closely behind, securing the second and third spots respectively. Notably, Russia ranked 24th out of 60 countries, with Belarus not mentioned in the media overview.
Parameters for the Ideal Country for Women
The ranking was primarily based on the level of gender inequality. Countries with lower gender inequality, particularly in terms of wage gaps, secured better positions in the ranking.
The Role of Mindset in Happiness
However, the situation is not straightforward. Research indicates that gender equality is not the primary factor in determining women’s happiness. An interesting study published by The Guardian and conducted by American economists Betsy Stevenson and Justin Wolfers analyzed women’s perspectives on personal happiness from 1970 to 2005. The results were surprising.
Despite advancements in legislation favoring women and reductions in gender inequality, women reported feeling less satisfied with life over the years. This trend was indirectly influenced by disparities in the “marriage market,” exacerbated by factors such as crime rates. For instance, the researchers noted that the number of African American men in prison increased fivefold between 1980 and 2000, leading to more black men incarcerated than enrolled in colleges and universities. Such statistics significantly impact the marriage market.
Of course, the lack of men is not the sole reason for women’s dissatisfaction. Researchers acknowledged the evident fact that women often bear the brunt of both work and domestic responsibilities, leading to overwork and decreased life satisfaction.
Moreover, the authors of the study believe that the dual burden and unequal pay (compared to men) particularly affect women in more liberal regions, such as Switzerland, where feminist aspirations are strong. Conversely, women with traditional mindsets, who see themselves as keepers of the family hearth, tend to experience greater contentment and joy in life.
Thus, freedom in rights and the sense of equality are not the sole determinants of women’s happiness.
Women Need Equal Pay
Forbes Woman published intriguing data from the UN Women report titled “Progress of the World’s Women 2019–2020: Families in a Changing World,” which examines the current state of women’s rights across different countries.
Here are some notable facts from the article:
- 3 billion women and girls live in countries where marital rape is not illegal.
- The age of marriage has increased worldwide.
- Fertility rates have decreased.
- Women have become more economically independent.
- In 19 countries, women are legally required to obey their husbands.
- About one-third of married women in developing countries believe their opinions are not considered regarding their own health.
- Women spend three times more time on unpaid care work and domestic responsibilities than men. However, fathers are increasingly taking paternity leave, especially in countries with incentives for men on parental leave.
The authors of the report conducted this meticulous work to emphasize that countries still need to address gender inequality. They advocate for guaranteeing women’s rights at both governmental and family levels, supporting care for elderly relatives, and enhancing safety through legislation. Overall, countries need to allocate at least 5% of their GDP to these goals.
While we have discussed that gender equality is not the sole guarantee of women’s happiness, it is undeniable that having rights and financial security can make any person, especially women who are socially vulnerable, feel more secure and confident. This, in turn, can make it easier to define and achieve happiness. This is a point that male leaders should take note of. Do not hesitate to pay women well. They give their all both at work and at home.
