OPTIMISM AS A PREDICTOR OF LIFE SATISFACTION AMONG PAKISTANI UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Abstract
Objective: Current study aimed to explore the role of optimism as predictor of life satisfaction of Pakistani university students. For the last many years there is an emphasis on curing mental illnesses or psychopathology in the field of psychology. Keyes [1] scrutinized that any state of mental health that is less flourishing actually imposes a burden on individuals and the society as well. The need of the time is to enhance positive mental state among individuals enabling them to utilize their best potentials. The current study is a step forward in this direction.
Place and duration of study: Institute of clinical Psychology, Jan -June 2013
(After a detailed literature review it was hypothesized that (1) Optimism plays a predictive role in the life satisfaction of university students)
Sample & Methods: 120 university students between the age ranges of 18-25 years (mean age = 22.60) were assessed through Life Orientation Scale Revised[2], and Life Satisfaction Scale[3].
Result: In order to analyze the data statistically SPSS 14 was used, regression analysis shows optimism contribute 12% variance in the life satisfaction of university students. Moreover there is a significant relationship between optimism and life satisfaction (p<.01) among university students.
Implications of study: This study will open the door for more in depth research regarding significance of creating an optimistic approach and using of adequate coping strategies specifically among youth to sort out their daily hassles and project them constructively.
