Causal Relationship Between Perceived Self-Concept and Life Satisfaction in Young Adults

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine gender differences in personal self-concept and satisfaction with life, as well as to explore the relationship between these variables among young adults. A total of 231 participants, including 79 males and 152 females, were assessed using standardized measures of satisfaction with life and the personal self-concept questionnaire, which includes dimensions of self-fulfilment, honesty, autonomy, and emotional self-concept. Independent samples t-tests revealed that female participants scored significantly higher in self-fulfilment, honesty, emotional self-concept, and overall personal self-concept compared to male participants, while no significant gender difference was found in autonomy or overall satisfaction with life. Correlation analyses indicated that, in the total sample, satisfaction with life was strongly associated with self-fulfilment and moderately related to honesty and overall personal self-concept. Separate gender analyses showed differing patterns: for males, satisfaction with life demonstrated significant positive relationships with honesty, autonomy, emotional self-concept, and total self-concept, whereas for females, satisfaction with life was significantly related to honesty, autonomy, emotional self-concept, and overall personal self-concept, but not self-fulfilment. These findings suggest that personal self-concept plays a central role in shaping life satisfaction, with emotional self-concept and honesty emerging as key determinants across genders. The results highlight the importance of fostering positive self-perceptions, emotional awareness, and authenticity in youth-focused mental health and educational programs. The study offers meaningful insights into the complex interplay between self-concept and well-being in young adults, while also emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive interventions.