Relationship of Materialism With Self-esteem and Well-being Among Indian Participants

Abstract

Materialism involves prioritizing the acquisition and possession of tangible goods as a primary life goal. It is often linked to the belief that acquiring and owning physical items is essential for happiness and personal fulfillment. There is a lack of research on materialism in India. This study examined the relationship of materialism with self-esteem and well-being in Indian context. Materialism Value Scale (MVS), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were administered to 65 Indian participants (Mage= 21.12, SD= 3.43). Correlational analysis shows no relation (r= .014, p = .915) between materialism and self-esteem. Moreover, no relationship (r= -.015, p = .906) was found between materialism and well-being. These findings indicate that materialism is not related to self-esteem and well-being in Indian context.