Environmental Events and Life Satisfaction Reports of Adolescents

Abstract

This study explored demographic, environmental and personality correlates of adolescents' positive life satisfaction reports. First, demographic variables did not relate to life satisfaction, except socioeconomic status. Second, the findings indicated that acute events and chronic life experiences, both positive and negative, were related significantly to life satisfaction. Third, locus of control attributions mediated the relationships between negative life events and chronic stressors and adolescent life satisfaction. The findings demonstrated the importance of integrative models of adolescent life satisfaction that reflect the interplay of both intrapersonal and environmental variables. The findings are discussed in the context of the promotion of positive psychological health among adolescents. Future research directions are proposed, emphasizing the need for cross-cultural studies.