Examining Sex Differences In Gratitude, Psychological Well-being, and Negative Affectivity

Abstract

This study investigated the relationships among gratitude, variables associated with well-being, and negative affectivity. Specifically, this study addressed sex differences among gratitude, psychological well-being, and negative affectivity. It also addressed whether the prediction of gratitude by psychological well-being and negative affectivity was different for women and men. Two hundred and sixty-four participants were included in the data analysis. Women had higher scores on negative affectivity and higher scores on gratitude than men. Higher scores on gratitude were positively correlated with higher scores on life satisfaction, well-being, authentic-durable happiness, positive affect and attending to emotions. Higher scores on gratitude were negatively correlated with higher scores on subjective fluctuating happiness. Results indicated different predictor variables for gratitude for men and women. Future research should include the use of longitudinal data as well as studies on techniques that increase gratitude and decrease negative affectivity for men and women.