Charitable Children Become Happy Adults, Study Says

According to a study released Thursday by Fidelity Charitable, a public charity and donor-advised fund, 48% of people who experienced strong giving traditions during their childhood consider themselves to be very happy adults, compared to only 33% of happy adults that did not participate in giving as children. The study was based on 3,000 individuals that who give to charity and itemized their taxes for 2017.

45% of respondents who grew up with strong giving perceptions donate $5,000 or more to charity annually, and 89% volunteer an average of eight hours a month. Those that were raised to donate also appear to have stronger family ties and connections. 38%  said their current charitable habits were inspired by their parents.

Parents should also explain to children of all ages why they like to give to charity and how their gifts can make a difference. Discussions about charity are increasing, according to the study.

See Karen DeMasters, Charitable Children Become Happy Adults, Study Says, Financial Advisor, November 1, 2018.

Special thanks to Joel C. Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.