Authors

• Ritakallio, Veli-Matti (University of Turku. Department of Social Research)

Keywords

commodities, consumer goods, consumption, employment, expenditure, housing, income, poverty, social security, social security benefits, standard of living, well-being (health)

Abstract

The aim of the survey was to get a picture of Finns' financial well-being. Respondents were asked about their housing situation and their satisfaction with their current standard of living.

Respondents assessed their own family's financial situation. Respondents were asked about the necessity or non-necessity of various goods and services for today's Finnish adults. Respondents were also asked whether they considered certain goods and services necessary for themselves. Among other things, these included a mobile phone, a car, clothing, eating out, home furnishings, getting a haircut, home insurance, and health services. Respondents were also asked to tell about their own health.

Respondents reported on how financial matters are handled in their family and whether there are income differences between spouses. Attitudes towards social security benefits and poverty were explored, for example by asking about income support clients or those in need of income support, the minimum income and whether the minimum amount of income support is sufficient as it is. Finally, respondents indicated how much they have in terms of expenses and loans.

Background variables in the data include year of birth, gender, marital status, type of housing, size of household and number of children, region of residence at age 14 and at present, highest level of education, main activity of self and spouse, socio-economic status and monthly income of the whole family.