Abstract
Subjective Wellbeing, implying an evaluation of one’s life has recently received intellectual attention, especially in developed countries. Measuring this concept entails both an effective and cognitive evaluation of life. Life satisfaction plays a vital role in positive life outcomes as a key part of the cognitive component of subjective wellbeing. Various factors could determine the current state of wellbeing on an individual. Leveraging on one of the surveys that collect data on subjective wellbeing in Nigeria, we examined the determinants of life satisfaction among youths in Nigeria, with a concentration on the demographic and psychosocial factors. Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) data for Nigeria (n = 18,454) was analyzed using chi-square tests and binomial logistic regression in Stata 14. The result showed that gender, residence, and region significantly determined life satisfaction. For psychosocial factors influencing life satisfaction; health, family life satisfaction, friendship, treatment by others, and perceived improvement in comparison to last year, significantly determine life satisfaction. Specifically, male resident in rural areas of Nigeria were more likely to report satisfaction with life. Further, youths that reported satisfaction with family life were more likely to be satisfied with life in general, while satisfaction with health, friendships, treatment by others, and improved condition from last year influenced satisfaction with life. In conclusion, it has been shown that beyond the socio-demographic factors, psychosocial determinants play vital roles in determining life satisfaction among youths. It is therefore imperative that government agencies consider policies and interventions that address psychosocial support for youths in Nigeria.
Highlights
In the last three decades, subjective wellbeing which captures an individual’s subjective evaluation of their lives has experienced increased attention among scholars worldwide
Data for this study was extracted from the fifth round of Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS5) which was conducted in 2016/2017 by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) together with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and National Agency for the Control of Aids (NACA)
Findings from the analysis revealed that the age of respondents, level of education attained, area of residence, the geopolitical zone of residence, wealth index, and gender were the socio-demographic variables associated with life satisfaction
Summary
In the last three decades, subjective wellbeing which captures an individual’s subjective evaluation of their lives has experienced increased attention among scholars worldwide. According to Pavot and Diener (2008); Ozmete (2011), and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development OECD’s (2013) guidelines, measuring the concept of subjective wellbeing entails both an effective and cognitive evaluation of life It is an aspect of the quality of life or subjective well-being of individuals that is based on life experiences and events (Dyrdal et al, 2011; Hlavac, 2011; Steger & Kashdan, 2007). 2020, Vol 8, No 2 one’s life at a point in time ranging from negative to positive It agrees with the cognitive theory of an individual’s cognitive judgment about comparisons based on the compatibility of their living conditions with the standards (Diener, Emmons, Larsen, & Griffen, 1985). Research points to the fact individuals attach different meanings to life outcomes thereby making life satisfaction a personal or individual decision depending on each person’s value orientation (Suh et al, 1998)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
