Subjective well-being in East Greenland

ABSTRACT This paper analyses subjective well-being (SWB) among inhabitants in East Greenland. Recently, considerable public attention has been directed toward the conditions of East Greenland, particularly in the Ammassalik region. Shocking reports on severe social problems with substance abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse continue to emerge. Meanwhile, the latest studies of SWB show that satisfaction with life is relatively high despite the poor living conditions. This study aims to explore inhabitants’ perceptions of what it means to have a good life, via personal interviews in four locations on the East Greenlandic coast. It discusses specific domains and indicators, such as social relations, emotional well-being, and employment status, and their impact on overall well-being. Finally, the paper discusses whether the findings presented support or dispute existing research practices, with a focus on the report Arctic Social Indicators (ASI) and the Survey of Living Conditions in the Arctic (SLiCA). This study highlights the gap in leading research practice, suggesting that additional research on SWB in Greenland and other areas in the Arctic be conducted to ensure that SWB, as a direct measure, is included in future social indicator research in the Arctic.