The concept of needs in child well-being research: Lessons from a mixed methods study in Germany

Abstract

This article systematically links the concept of well-being and a needs-based approach. The starting point, therefore, is empirical data on children and young people in Germany from a mixed-methods study. The framework of the study and the analysis of the data were organized along four dimensions of needs: Rights, participation, and quality interactions (1); Access to quality, needs-based infrastructure (2); Time, attention, and care (3); Secured financial needs (4). By presenting findings from two of these dimensions, the significant potential of thinking about concepts of needs and well-being together can be demonstrated. Data show that knowledge of their rights has a strong influence on the well-being of young people and at the same time is articulated as a need. Furthermore, the impact of quality relationships is shown, especially within the school context. Overall, we strongly advocate a conceptual link between well-being and needs, and would encourage further development of this link.