Ayesha Fazal karim (MSc, 2016-2018) Supervisors: Sumaira Ayub & Farah Malik, PhD
University: Institute of Applied Psychology, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan
Corresponding Address: Department of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. Email: chairperson@appsy.pu.edu.pk, Phone: 92-42-9231245
Abstract:
The study examined the relationship between dispositional optimism, self-determination and well-being in job seekers young adults. It was hypothesized that 1) there would be a positive relationship between dispositional optimism, self-determination and well-being in job seekers young adults, 2) dispositional optimism and self-determination would predict well-being in job seekers young adults and 3) there would be gender differences in dispositional optimism, self-determination and well-being in job seekers young adults. Correlational research design was used. The sample comprised of 192 job seekers young adults including 91 men and 101 women of age range between 19 to 27 years (M = 22, SD = 1.25). Data were collected from different universities of Lahore including GCU, UMT etc. by employing purposive sampling strategy. Urdu versions of Life Orientation Test-Revised (Scheier, Carver, & Bridges, 1985), Self-Determination Scales (Deci & Ryan, 2000) and Mental Health Continuum Short-Form (Keyes & Ryff, 1998) were used in the study. The results of Pearson product moment correlation showed significant positive relationship between dispositional optimism, self- determination and well-being. The results of multiple hierarchical regression analysis revealed that dispositional optimism and self- determination significantly positively predicted the well-being in job seekers young adults. Further, results of independent sample t-test showed significant gender differences in social wellbeing. Moreover differences in duration of unemployment in term of dispositional optimism were also found. The findings of the study will help the government and industries to increase job opportunities to enhance the wellbeing of individuals.
Keywords. Dispositional optimism, self-determination, well- being, job seekers.
