The Impact of Housing Stability and Social Exclusion on Family Income Satisfaction - A Study on Vulnerable Groups -

Abstract

(Background and Purpose) Economic instability and social exclusion significantly affect the well being of vulnerable populations, particularly households with disabilities, low income families, and single parent households. Among these factors, housing stability plays a critical role in shaping financial security and subjective income satisfaction. Existing research primarily focuses on direct financial indicators, neglecting the mediating effect of housing factors on economic well being. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining the impact of vulnerable group classifications on family income satisfaction while exploring the mediating role of housing conditions. By identifying the interplay between housing stability and economic security, this study provides actionable policy recommendations for mitigating economic inequality and improving the quality of life of disadvantaged households. (Method) This study utilizes data from the 2023 Korea Welfare Panel Study, which includes responses from 7,697 individuals belonging to socioeconomically vulnerable groups. The analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0 and the SPSS Process Macro, employing frequency analysis, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and mediation analysis with Hayes' Process Macro Model 4. The mediating effect of housing conditions was tested using a bootstrapping approach with 5,000 resampling iterations to ensure statistical rigor. Key housing variables included homeownership status, relocation experience, housing affordability, and access to public housing programs. By integrating these factors, the study assesses both direct and indirect effects on income satisfaction, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the economic challenges faced by vulnerable populations. (Results) The findings indicate that vulnerable households report significantly lower family income satisfaction compared to non vulnerable groups. Among them, households with disabled members and single parent families face the greatest economic hardships, exacerbating their dissatisfaction with income levels. Notably, housing stability emerges as a critical mediating factor. Families residing in stable housing conditions whether through homeownership or long term rental security demonstrate higher income satisfaction, even when facing economic disadvantages. The mediation analysis confirms that housing stability partially offsets the negative impact of economic vulnerability on income satisfaction, highlighting its role as a buffer against financial insecurity. These results underscore the necessity of integrating housing policies into broader social welfare frameworks to enhance economic resilience. (Conclusion and Implications) This study provides empirical evidence that vulnerable group status negatively affects family income satisfaction, with housing stability playing a crucial mediating role. The findings suggest that improving housing accessibility and stability can mitigate economic hardships and enhance financial well being. Therefore, policy efforts should prioritize expanding housing subsidies, increasing access to affordable rental programs, and implementing targeted support for disadvantaged households. Beyond financial aid, housing policies should incorporate structural improvements and community based support to promote long term stability. A holistic approach to housing welfare can serve as an effective tool for reducing economic inequality and improving the overall well being of vulnerable populations.