Urbanism and social psychological well‐being: A test of three theories

Abstract

Determinist theory predicts that in urban areas there is a deterioration of primary relationships, which leads to a reduction in social psychological well‐being. Compositional theory argues that status variables, not urbanism, account for levels of well‐being. Subcultural theory holds that urbanism lowers well‐being, despite the presence of viable subcultures which sustain primary relationships. Using pooled data from national samples of the United States taken in the years 1974 through 1982, path analyses are conducted. Happiness and satisfaction with community, with family, and with friends are used as measures of well‐being. Urbanism involves a range of communities, from central cities of the 12 largest SMSA's to rural counties. Primary relationships include involvement with kin and with friends. The findings do not support determinist theory. Subcultural theory receives the most support, particularly when involvement with friends is in the path analyses. Levels of well‐being decrease with urbanism, despite a positive relationship between urbanism and friendship.