Wellbeing in Malta : insights from community consultation

Abstract

This study undertakes formative, participatory research involving open-ended dialogue, to examine wellbeing, its correlates and the language used around it, informed by literature on wellbeing and on non-formal community development rooted in democratization and participatory methods. The study employs qualitative data, drawn from a community consultation event held in Valletta, Malta. Data was coded and analysed using content and thematic analysis, along a spectrum that included economic, educational, health and nutrition, infrastructure and environment, interpersonal relations, civic life, cultural, spiritual and personality aspects. A key finding is the importance (both positive and negative) of family and interpersonal interactions for social wellbeing. While the findings do not challenge the mainstream literature about the key determinants of wellbeing, they shed light on their nuances and on the language used in Malta, as well as the age and gender distinctions. This opens up an agenda for further research using similar methods.