Prospective associations between strengths of moral character and health: longitudinal evidence from survey and insurance claims data.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Excellent character, reflected in adherence to high standards of moral behavior, has been argued to contribute to well-being. The study goes beyond this claim and provides insights into the role of strengths of moral character (SMC) for physical and mental health.

Methods

This study used longitudinal observational data merged with medical insurance claims data collected from 1209 working adults of a large services organization in the US. Self-reported physical and mental health as well as diagnostic information on depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular disease were used as outcomes. The prospective associations between SMC (7 indicators and a composite measure) and physical and mental health outcomes were examined using lagged linear and logistic regression models.

SUBMITTER: Weziak-Bialowolska D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9344441 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature