Gender and Educational Level Differences in Subjective Well-Being among Secondary School Students

Abstract

This research explores the variation in subjective well-being (SWB) among secondary school students based on gender (male and female) and educational level (Matriculation and Intermediate/+2). The study employed standard measures of SWB, including Life Satisfaction, Positive Affect, and Negative Affect, to analyse responses from a purposive sample of 300 students (140 males, 160 females; 178 Matriculation, 122 Intermediate). Results highlighted statistically significant gender differences, with females scoring higher in both Life Satisfaction and Negative Affect. Educational level also influenced Life Satisfaction, with Matriculation students demonstrating greater satisfaction than Intermediate students. These findings suggest targeted well-being interventions are necessary, particularly for male and senior secondary students.