Life satisfaction in relation to attitudes towards immigrants among Europeans by generational cohorts

Immigration is a process that affects both the immigrants and the native population. The aim of this present study was to analyse negative attitudes of resident populations towards immigration (ATIs) and the influence of these attitudes on life satisfaction. The main contribution of the work is that it considers the perspectives of 3 generational cohorts. The study sample consisted of 44,721 individuals living in Europe, taken from the European Social Surveys of 2002 and 2014. To model binary dependent variables, we performed logistic regressions. The estimated coefficients are reported in terms of elasticities. Results suggest that Baby Boomers have more hostile ATIs and are less satisfied with their lives compared to Generation X and Generation Y. Income influences ATIs, and life satisfaction. Education only plays a significant role in ATIs. There is no robust empirical evidence of endogeneity: it can be assumed that ATIs represent explanatory factors vis-a-vis life satisfaction. Generation Y seems to be the most open-minded regarding immigration, and rejection of immigrants from poor countries has the strongest negative effect on their life satisfaction. This research, focused on socioeconomic factors that influence ATIs, might help policy-makers to develop sustainable immigration policies that improve the attitudes and well-being of local populations.