How Self-Rated is Self-Rated Health? Exploring the Role of Individual and Institutional Factors in Reporting Heterogeneity in Russia

Abstract In recent years the literature exploring state dependent nature of individual self-rated health has grown rapidly. We contribute to this ‘reporting heterogeneity’ research field in two main ways. First, we are among few studies examine determinants reporting heterogeneity Russian context. Second, echoing social literature, augment standard battery level socioeconomic and demographic characteristics with aggregated macro variables serving as proxies for local environmental conditions. not aware other that have incorporated approach. Estimating a generalized ordered probit model resolve identification problem through inclusion an objective disease index. terms heterogeneity, find response behaviour is systematically influenced by but also aggregate regional characteristics. particular, finding individual’s relative standing their economy can condition subjective questionnaires important merits further examination. argue both income mechanism links cognitive process choice sense optimism individuals institutional environment plausible explanations observed effects.