Examining the Influence of Volunteer Motivation and Civic Engagement on Well-Being Among NSS Volunteers

Volunteerism plays a crucial role in fostering social cohesion, personal growth, and psychological well-being. The National Service Scheme (NSS) in India provides structured opportunities for students to engage in community service, enhancing their leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. This study examines the influence of volunteer motivation and civic engagement on the well-being of NSS volunteers in Tamil Nadu. Utilizing Clary and Snyder’s (1999) functional approach to volunteer motivation and Putnam’s (2000) framework on civic engagement, this research explores how these factors contribute to emotional, social, and psychological well-being. A quantitative research design was employed, with a sample of 312 NSS volunteers selected through purposive sampling. Standardized psychometric tools, including the Volunteer Functional Motivation Scale (Clary et al., 1998), Civic Engagement Scale (Doolittle & Faul, 2013), and the Adult Mental Health Continuum (Keyes, 2002), were administered. Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine relationships among the variables. Results indicate a significant positive relationship between volunteer motivation, civic engagement, and well-being. Specifically, values, understanding, and enhancement motivation factors showed moderate effects on well-being, while social and career motivations had minimal impact. Civic engagement dimensions namely attitudinal and behavioral were also positively associated with well-being. The findings highlight the importance of structured volunteer programs in enhancing youth mental health and civic responsibility. The study provides valuable insights for institutions and policymakers to develop targeted interventions that maximize the psychological benefits of volunteerism while fostering long-term community engagement among students.