velværet

Velværet is a Norwegian noun referring to the state of well-being or wellness, encompassing physical, mental, and social flourishing. The definite form velværet is used when speaking of well-being as a general concept or a known object, for example in discussions about the well-being of a society or community. In everyday language it is closely related to, but not identical with, helse (health) and livskvalitet (quality of life). Velværet aims to capture a broader sense of flourishing beyond mere absence of illness, including factors such as safety, social connectedness, and life satisfaction.

Etymology and usage: Velvære is formed from roots meaning “good” and “to be,” and the definite form velværet marks its use as a specific concept. The term is used in sociology, public health, and welfare discourse to discuss the overall condition of well-being within individuals or populations. It is often contrasted with purely clinical notions of health, while overlapping with ideas of livskvalitet and trivsel (contentment or well-being in daily life).

Measurement and interpretation: Assessing velværet commonly involves self-reported indicators of life satisfaction, perceived health, mental well-being, social support, and safety. Policy discussions may address determinants such as income, housing, education, and environment, recognizing that well-being is multi-dimensional and culturally contingent. Critics note the subjective nature of well-being measures and the risk of cultural bias when comparing different groups.

See also: livskvalitet, trivsel, helse, velvære.