Gratitude, Perceived Social Support, Subjective Happiness, Life Satisfaction and Empathy of College Students: A Comparative Study of Gender Difference and Educational Sectors

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the gender and educational sector difference on gratitude, perceived social support, subjective happiness, life satisfaction and empathy of college students in Karachi, Pakistan. It was hypothesized that, 1. “There will be gender difference in gratitude, perceived social support, subjective happiness, life satisfaction and empathy of college students”, 2. “There will be difference in gratitude, perceived social support, subjective happiness, life satisfaction and empathy between college students of private and public sectors”. Participants of the present study consisted of 115 students with mean age =19.20 years and SD=1.244 (Female N=60, M age = 19.18, SD= 1.20 & Male N= 55, M age =19.22, SD=1.30) Data was collected from different private and public sector college students of Karachi, through convenient sampling. After taking consent, students were requested to fill Respondent Profile Form and then, Gratitude questionnaire, Multidimensional scale of perceived social support, Subjective happiness scale, Satisfaction with Life scale and Empathy scale were administered. T-’test indicates female students scored more on the variable of empathy as compared to male students; moreover there is no significant gender difference found on other variables including gratitude, perceived social support, subjective happiness and life satisfaction. Furthermore students of public sectors scored high on the factor of perceived social support; subjective happiness, and life satisfaction, whereas private sector students scored high on empathy. There is no significant difference was observed on the variable of gratitude in both sectors (private and public).  This research is significant for understanding the role of gratitude, perceived social support, subjective happiness, life satisfaction, and empathy in the well-being of college students. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and counselors, highlighting their role in fostering positivity and promoting empathy among college students.