ANALYZING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HAPPINESS AND EUROPEAN STATE-MANDATED PARENTAL LEAVE: LESSONS FOR HUMAN RESOURCE POLICYMAKERS

Jennifer Teague
Carol Locker
Purdue University Global

ABSTRACT

Does the amount of parental leave afforded an individual have any statistically
significant impact on perceived happiness? In looking at the 2015 United Nations’ World
Happiness Report (WHR), one can identify the level of happiness for a number of countries within
Europe. In addition, the eleventh International Review of Leave Policies and Related Research,
along with the International Labour Organization’s most recent review of worldwide parental
leave policies reflects the amount of parental leave afforded parents in each of the same European
countries. Using this information, research was performed to determine if there is any statistical
significance between perceived happiness and amount of parental leave required by law. This
determination was made using quantitative data analysis methods via two multiple linear
regression models. The results were contradictory, thus leading one to believe further research is
needed. Given the multitude of factors influencing one’s level of happiness, the amount of
parental leave afforded the individual is but one, albeit small, factor when looking at the overall
picture. Additional opportunities for further research and impact on corporate human resource
policy decisions regarding leave are also addressed.
Keywords: Parental leave, happiness measurement, work-life balance, legislative measures, European comparative
review