This book presents the findings of the eighth territory-wide Social Indicators Survey conducted during the period of May to July 2004. The focus of the survey is on subjective indicators, which include the perceptions, feelings, aspirations, values, beliefs, behavioural tendencies, grievances, and the sense of well-being of Hong Kong residents from different walks of life. The target population comprises adults aged 18 and over who are living in Hong Kong.

The questionnaire used in this survey is divided into two parts. The first part is a core component, to be answered by all respondents, on their quality of life. This core section is a permanent feature of the periodic survey so that social trends can be measured. The second part consists of a number of modules on special topics, and each module is answered by a sub-sample of the respondents.

In this survey, there are four special modules: (1) fertility decline, continuing and life-long education; (2) employment, cross-border activities, and identity; (3) legal culture and political attitudes; and (4) health and class.