Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/227266 
Year of Publication: 
2020
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 13739
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
Using Italian data, I study the relationship between vocational education and self-reported happiness by focusing on individuals with at least a five-years high school degree, either vocational or academic. My instrumental variable strategy shows that individuals who have completed a vocational high school are more likely to report a high level of happiness than individuals who have completed an academic degree. I find no clear evidence that vocational graduates have a lower probability to be employed or earn lower wages than other graduates. I show that they live more than other graduates in small towns, where prices are lower and social life more rewarding, and have a less privileged parental background. Both facts may lead to more moderate aspirations and therefore contribute to higher happiness.
Subjects: 
happiness
vocational education
Italy
JEL: 
I21
D90
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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