Does Where We Live Matter? A Study of Self-Esteem and Psychological Well-Being in Emerging Adults

The living environment of emerging adults can shape their daily experiences, independence, and psychological functioning. This study examined differences in self-esteem and psychological well-being between independent-living and family-based living students, and explored the relationship between these two variables in emerging adults aged 18 to 25. A total of 178 participants completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5). Results revealed a significant difference in self-esteem and psychological well-being between the two groups, with independent-living students reporting higher levels of self-esteem and psychological well-being compared to family-based living students. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between self-esteem and psychological well-being among emerging adult students. With the increasing trend of educational migration and the concentration of higher education institutions in urban centers in India, understanding the impact of living arrangements on student well-being is particularly important.