A Study on Family Support, Social Support and Mental Well-Being among Generation Z Students in Semi-Urban and Rural Karnataka
by Dr. Deepu H N (Assistant Professor), Preethi G S (MSW)
Published: June 2, 2026 • DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2026.100500367
Abstract
Background: The mental health of Generation Z (born 1997–2012) students in semi-urban and rural educational environments in India has not been extensively studied. Family and social support systems are considered crucial protective factors in areas where formal mental health services are scarce.
Objectives: This study investigated the levels of family and social support and mental well-being among Generation Z students in Holenarasipura Taluka, Hassan District, Karnataka, and explored the relationship between these factors.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive-correlational study with 196 undergraduate and postgraduate students chosen through convenience sampling during the 2025–2026 academic year. The Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS) was used to evaluate mental well-being, and the Family and Social Support Scale (FSSS) measured perceived support. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, independent samples t-tests, and simple linear regression using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 26.0.
Results: Most participants indicated moderate to high levels of perceived support (88.3%) and mental well-being (96.4%). There was a significant positive correlation between family and social support and mental well-being (r = .335, p < .01). Regression analysis revealed that family and social support were significant predictors of mental well-being (β = .335, p < .001), accounting for 11.2% of the variance. No significant gender differences were found. However, postgraduate students reported higher perceived support than undergraduates, whereas students with disabilities showed lower mental well-being.
Conclusion: The results underscore the protective role of family and social support in enhancing the mental well-being of Generation Z students and highlight the importance of inclusive counseling and peer-support services in higher-education institutions.