Subjective well-being as a unit for narrative analysis
https://doi.org/10.55959/MSU0130-0105-6-60-1-4
Abstract
The article examines the potential of quantitative narrative analysis for assessing subjective well-being and its application in developing and implementing social policies. To achieve this goal, the study explores the concept of subjective well-being, the sociological methods used to measure it, and the reliability of respondents’ answers in reflecting their beliefs and emotional states. The advantages and limitations of traditional sociological surveys are compared with methods based on user-generated content from social networks.
The study outlines the key stages of quantitative narrative analysis, including the collection of textual data from domestic social networks, thematic processing, and statistical interpretation. Particular emphasis is placed on the correlation between indicators derived from narratives and the results of traditional surveys. These indicators address dimensions such as life satisfaction, social activity, and emotional stability.
The findings reveal that narrative-based data demonstrates high validity and comparability with classical sociological methods. Moreover, quantitative narrative analysis significantly reduces research costs while maintaining accuracy and informativeness, making it a promising tool for regular monitoring of subjective well-being.
The article concludes that the further development of quantitative narrative analysis is justified as an effective instrument for studying public sentiment and informing evidence- based social policies. These findings enhance the application of big data in sociological research and provide deeper insights into the factors influencing well-being.
About the Authors
V. L. Tambovtsev
Lomonosov Moscow State University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Moscow
L. A. Valitova
Lomonosov Moscow State University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Moscow
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Review
For citations:
Tambovtsev V.L., Valitova L.A. Subjective well-being as a unit for narrative analysis. Moscow University Economics Bulletin. 2025;(1):60–81. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.55959/MSU0130-0105-6-60-1-4
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