Lakshmanasamy, T.2023-08-092023-08-092021-12Lakshmanasamy T.. Anomic Feelings and Happiness: Ordered logit estimation of the effects of freedom and control on subjective well-being. Indian Journal of Mental Health. 2021 Dec; 8(4): 435-4442394-66522394-4579http://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/222774Background: Basic human concerns like money, income, health and family life do not satisfactorily explain fully the variations in subjective well-being. The long-run relationship between average income and subjective well-being is flat, despite the substantial rise in income and living standards. People value functional freedom and choice in social, political and institutional spheres of life than the concerns for money and economic well-being. This paper investigates whether anomic feelings like powerlessness, disillusion, dejection, subdued freedom and lack of trust and confidence could explain subjective well-being and the puzzling relationship between income and life satisfaction. Methodology: This study uses the sixth wave (2010-2014) World Values Survey data across 12 states. Anomic feelings are measured by the freedom of choice, control over own life and confidence in institutions. Since the subjective well-being indicators, life satisfaction and happiness are ordered categorical measures, the ordered logit regression method is used in the empirical estimation. Results: Anomic feelings of freedom of choice, control over own life and confidence in institutions influence life satisfaction significantly and positively. Conclusion: The attitude and confidence in institutions that govern freedom and choice and enable individuals to take own decision are important for a happy and satisfactory life in India.Subjective well-beinghappinesslife satisfactionanomic attitudeordered logitJournal ArticleIndiaFormerly Professor, Department of Econometrics, University of Madras, Chennai