Perceived Acceptance and Psychological Well-Being Among Young Adults: Exploring Family and Social Influences

Young adulthood is a phase when individuals begin to shape their identities, form new relationships, and navigate the complexities of adult responsibilities. For many, this period of self-discovery and independence also comes with challenges, which can impact their psychological well-being. Perceived acceptance, the subjective feeling of being valued, supported, and understood by others, plays a crucial role in shaping young adults' mental and emotional health. This study investigates the relationship between perceived acceptance from significant figures—mothers, fathers, family, and friends and psychological well-being among young adults aged 18-22 years in Bangalore, India. Using a purposive sampling method, data were collected from 287 participants through the Perceived Acceptance Scale (Douglas et al.) and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (Ryff & Keyes). Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between all the dimensions of perceived acceptance and psychological well-being. Gender differences emerged, with females reporting higher perceived acceptance from fathers and greater psychological well-being. These findings underscore the importance of nurturing acceptance to promote mental health in young adults and provide insights for future interventions and policy-making