The association between ethnoracial characteristics and subjective well-being: a perspective considering social inequalities

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explored the association between subjective well-being (measured by life satisfaction) and ethnoracial characteristics (i.e. self-ascription, skin color, and speaking an Indigenous language) in Mexico and the role of socioeconomic inequalities in mediating this relationship. The emerging questions were: ‘What are the associations between subjective well-being and ethnoracial characteristics in Mexico?’ and ‘Are these associations affected by socioeconomic inequalities?.’ A multinomial logistic analysis was conducted, which estimates associations among multiple categories and predictor variables, using the data from the 2019 Project on Ethnoracial Discrimination in Mexico (PRODER, N = 7,037). The results indicated that Indigenous and white self-ascriptions were positively related to life satisfaction, whereas Mestizo and African Mexican identification did not have any association. Concerning skin color, the digital colorimeter measurements indicated that those with a lighter skin color had greater probabilities of having higher levels of life satisfaction. Additionally, those who reported speaking or who have parents speaking an Indigenous language were less likely to be in higher categories of life satisfaction. These results have central implications for the design and implementation of inclusive public policies, and for the design and modification of public programs.