Wellbeing across the American Nations: First Settler Effects influence traditional and existential wellness.

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the "First Settler Wellness Effect," exploring how cultural geography impacts traditional wellness (physical health, social relationships, and financial stability) and existential wellness (purpose, meaning, and community identity) across the United States. Using data from the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, which includes responses from over 325,000 individuals across 110 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) from 2009 to 2016, we analyze wellness outcomes through the lens of the American Nations Model. This model categorizes the United States into distinct cultural regions shaped by early settlement patterns, emphasizing the enduring influence of regional norms and ideologies. Our findings, in support of the American Nations Model, reveal significant regional

SUBMITTER: Samson DR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12422463 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature