SCMS Center for Socio-Economic Research- Study Report

Quality of life in Cochin City admirable
– SCENSER study report.

The quality of life of the residents in Cochin City is admirable, according to the findings of the study made recently by SCMS Center for Socio-Economic Research (SCENSER).

Quality is all about ‘being, belonging and becoming’ as identified by Quality of Life Research Unit of University of Toronto. While ‘being’ is concerned with individual aspects, ‘belonging’ represents social aspects and ‘becoming’ is part of goal setting. Quality of life thus embraces both subjective and objective features.

The study examined various parameters of quality of life like relationship with neighbors, support from neighbors, safety and security, religious support, recreational facilities, entertainment activities, family get together, educational facilities, accessibility to hospitals and libraries etc.

It was found that social support, including support from religious leaders, was a major factor helping to maintain the quality. However, a topic of major concern for the city dwellers was with regard to public safety. Some of the recent incidents of crime in the city had triggered a feeling of insecurity among the residents.

It is important to create more social opportunities in order to improve quality of life, the study revealed. The government can take the role of a facilitator in this respect by providing an appropriate conducive environment.

The study was coordinated by Prof. Radha Thevannoor, Director, SCENSER. Dr.N.Rajagopal, Associate Professor and Dr.Abey Philip, Asst. Professor were the members of the team. MBA students were involved in data collection.