The relations between life domain satisfaction and subjective well‐being

Abstract

PurposeThis study examines the relationship between domain‐based life satisfaction (LS) and subjective well‐being (SWB) as well as the role of spiritual well‐being as a moderator. Domains of LS include family cohesion, social connectedness, career success, and self‐esteem.Design/methodology/approachA survey was completed by 145 full‐time Hong Kong Chinese employees working in a variety of jobs and organizations.FindingsMultiple regression analyses show that career success, social connectedness, and self‐esteem are associated with both psychological and physical well‐being. Spiritual well‐being moderated the relationship between career success and psychological well‐being. The relationship is stronger for low than for high spirituality.Research limitations/implicationsAll data were self‐reported and collected at one point in time. Thus, common method variance may be an issue and causal inferences are not warranted.Practical implicationsDomain‐specific LS and spiritual well‐being appear to be related to employees' well‐being. Managers and human resources professionals may need to adopt a more holistic approach to staff development.Originality/valueThe current study indicates that domain‐specific LS improves the explanation of variations in well‐being. Implications of these findings, the limitations of the study, and directions for future research are discussed.