Cultural transition and its effects on subjective well-being among college students in Bihar

Cultural transition in contemporary India has significantly influenced the lives of young adults, particularly college students who stand at the intersection of traditional values and modern aspirations. Bihar, a state deeply rooted in socio-cultural traditions, is experiencing rapid changes due to globalization, urbanization, digital exposure, and expanding educational opportunities. This study examines the effects of cultural transition on the subjective well-being of college students in Bihar. Subjective well-being is understood as individuals’ cognitive and emotional evaluation of their lives, including life satisfaction, positive affect, and absence of negative emotions. The research explores how shifts in family structures, value systems, career expectations, gender roles, and social relationships shape students’ psychological well-being. Using a descriptive and analytical approach, data were collected from college students across selected districts of Bihar through structured questionnaires measuring cultural orientation and subjective well-being indicators. The findings suggest that cultural transition has a dual impact: while exposure to modern values enhances autonomy, career awareness, and self-expression, it also generates stress, identity conflict, and pressure arising from the clash between traditional norms and modern lifestyles. Students who are able to integrate traditional cultural support with modern outlooks report higher levels of life satisfaction and emotional balance. Conversely, those experiencing cultural dissonance tend to show lower subjective well-being, marked by anxiety and dissatisfaction. The study highlights the importance of culturally sensitive counseling, value-based education, and supportive institutional environments to promote students’ well-being. Understanding the dynamics of cultural transition is essential for educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals aiming to foster holistic development and psychological resilience among college youth in Bihar.