Study of Domains of Personality, Life Satisfaction, and Hope in Young Adults: A Review

Abstract

In today’s fast-paced world, understanding what contributes to a fulfilling life for young adults is more important than ever. This review examines the intricate connections between personality, life satisfaction, and hope, three critical factors that shape psychological well-being. Research consistently highlights that personality traits such as extraversion, conscientiousness, and openness positively influence life satisfaction (Diener et al., 1985; Abdel-Khalek et al., 2022; Alvi et al., 2022), whereas neuroticism tends to have a negative impact (Crnković et al., 2023; Olaru et al., 2023). Additionally, resilience and psychological interventions have been shown to enhance these traits, fostering a greater sense of fulfillment (Ding et al., 2023; Kang et al., 2023). Hope emerges as a key link between personality and life satisfaction. Studies suggest that individuals with higher levels of extraversion and conscientiousness experience greater hope, which, in turn, strengthens their overall well-being (Halama, 2010; Mishra & Datta, 2019; Hutz et al., 2014). Cultural perspectives, particularly from India, emphasize the role of family dynamics, work environments, and social roles in shaping personality and psychological resilience (Mishra & Gupta, 2023; Thakur, 2018). Furthermore, hope serves as a protective factor against adversity, helping individuals maintain motivation and optimism in challenging situations (Bailey et al., 2007; Bronk et al., 2009; Veronese et al., 2023). By integrating global and Indian perspectives, this review offers a culturally relevant understanding of personality and well-being in young adults. The findings suggest that fostering resilience, self-efficacy, and positive personality traits can significantly enhance both hope and life satisfaction. Future research should focus on developing tailored psychological interventions that nurture these qualities, ultimately promoting a more fulfilling and enriched life for young adults.