Well-being in the United States: Insights from the Global Flourishing Study

Abstract

This paper presents findings from the U.S. Wave 1 data of the Global Flourishing Study (GFS). The analysis examines outcomes of flourishing across three key sociodemographic variables: age, education, and immigration status. Results show consistent age-related gradients in flourishing, with older adults generally reporting higher psychological and social well-being and greater financial security, despite more physical health limitations. Educational attainment is positively associated with most well-being domains, including psychological, physical, and socioeconomic outcomes, though some measures, such as social connectedness and hope show more complex, non-linear patterns. Foreign-born individuals report advantages in some areas of psychological well-being (e.g., optimism, purpose, and future life evaluation) and social well-being (e.g., social connectedness and trust). The paper argues that the GFS offers a comprehensive, multi-dimensional baseline for understanding well-being in the U.S and highlights the need for holistic, interdisciplinary approaches to policy aimed at fostering human flourishing.