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An application of multiple discrepancies theory (MDT) to seniors

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Abstract

MDT posits that satisfaction and happiness are functions of 7 perceived discrepancies, viz., between what one has and wants, relevant others have, needs, deserves, has had in the past, expected to have and expects to have. The theory and its historic antecedents are explained. The theory was applied to a sample of 450 seniors from 4 areas of Ontario. Briefly, MDT accounted for about a third of the variance in reported life satisfaction for the whole group and both sexes separately, and about a quarter of the variance in happiness.

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  1. University of Guelph, N1G 2W1, Guelph, Ontario, Canada

    Alex C. Michalos

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Michalos, A.C. An application of multiple discrepancies theory (MDT) to seniors. Soc Indic Res 18, 349–373 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00300488

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