NCJ Number
214980
Journal
Journal of Youth and Adolescence Volume: 35 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 311-319
Date Published
June 2006
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This study identified the characteristics of adolescents who scored high on the Students' Life Satisfaction Scale (SSLS), which measures the level of general satisfaction with one's life.
Abstract
The youth who scored high on "global life satisfaction" also had significantly higher scores on all measures of academic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal functioning than youth who scored low on life satisfaction. Those with high global satisfaction reported more positive relationships with others, including peers and parents; less intrapersonal distress, such as anxiety and depression; high levels of hope; and a greater sense of personal control than youth who reported low global satisfaction. Such findings suggest that high levels of life satisfaction and various measures of positive behavioral and psychological adjustment are interrelated. These findings parallel previous studies that examined levels of global satisfaction among adults. Participants were 490 students in 2 schools from separate districts in 2 Southeastern States. Both schools encompassed grades 6 through 12. The mean age of the sample was 14.45. In addition to the SSLS, participants were administered the Behavior Assessment System for Children, which assesses a wide range of academic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal dimensions. Academic variables measured grade point average, structured extracurricular activities, and negative perceived school experiences. Interpersonal mental health indicators pertained to relations with parents and peers. Intrapersonal mental health indicators pertained to hope, self-esteem, locus of control, depression, and anxiety. 2 tables and 34 references