The significance of the association between spirituality, well-being and perceived social support of Indian College Students

Recent studies conducted in India have shown that both spirituality (Ola, 2016) and perceived social support (Mahanta & Aggarwal, 2013) contribute significantly to increasing life satisfaction and well-being of Indian college students. While perceived social support is a major source of subjective well-being for adolescents (Chu, Saucier & Hafner, 2010) offering them physical and emotional comfort and protection from stressful events (Cohen & Wills, 1985), spirituality enhances their purpose in life, interconnectedness with others, profound inner life and transcending of ordinary experiences (Howden, 1993). The aim of the study is to investigate the association between perceived social support, spirituality and well-being in a sample of 954 Indian college students. Results show an association between social support and well-being r(952) = .28, p < .001 as well as spirituality and well-being r(952) = .28, p < .001. A medium association is found between spirituality and social support r(952) = .51, p < .001. Gender and socioeconomic status differences will be discussed.