Exploring the Role of Perceived Social Support on Subjective Well-Being Among Youth in India

Abstract

The study investigates the relationship between an individual’s sense of well-being and various factors related to their social environment, including parental relationships, peer connections, and perception of support from friends, neighbors, and institutions in the community. The analysis was conducted using data from the Young Lives Study in India. The final analysis included a sample of 894 participants aged 21–22 years. The study’s results, obtained through an ordinal logistic regression model, revealed significant positive associations between subjective well-being and perceived support from friends (β = 0.23, p = 0.000) and government organizations (β = 0.15, p = 0.001). In other words, participants who perceived higher levels of support from their friends and government institutions also tended to have a higher sense of well-being. A significant positive association was also observed between continued education in youth and subjective well-being (β = 0.41, p = 0.009). These findings suggest that social support groups for youth, which provide opportunities to connect with others in their community, can contribute to their overall well-being.

Additionally, the study highlights the importance of strengthening the outreach of existing government programs to support youth and promote higher education. By enhancing the availability and accessibility of these programs, the well-being of youth in the country can be positively influenced. Overall, this research emphasizes the role of social support networks and government initiatives in promoting the well-being of youth in India.