Relationship Between Social Capital And Life Satisfaction Of The Southern Khmer People In Viet Nam

Abstract

This study aims to measure the relationship Relationship between Social capital and life satisfaction of the Southern Khmer people in Viet Nam. Khmer households were targeted to be interviewed. To do this, the method of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is initially employed, then confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structure equation modelling (SEM) are used. The results showed that six aspects of Social capital toward social networks; Perception of individual in in a society; social norm; values ​​of life; information and communication and self-esteem are significant factors. As a result, self - esteem as mediators between social capital and life satisfaction. This finding provides strong evidence of the important role of social capital to support positive impacts on self-esteem and life satisfaction. In addition, Research results show that the average satisfaction index of Khmer people is relatively satisfied (3.67) with their current life.  Therefore, it is necessary to enhance the implementation of social capital to promote implementation of self - esteem, in order to contributes to improving life satisfaction. It is very important for local authorities and policy makers to develop programs to promote the enhancement of the components of social capital to increase the life satisfaction of the southern Khmer in Viet Nam.