Comparative Study of Life Satisfaction, Adversity Quotient and Self-concept in Working and Non-working Women

Abstract

This ex-post facto study examines the relationship between employment status and psychological variables - life satisfaction, adversity quotient, and self-concept - among married women aged 35-45 in semi-urban and urban areas of India. Utilizing purposive sampling with the snowball method, data were collected from 76 working women and 76 non-working women who met specific inclusion criteria. Assessment tools included the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) for life satisfaction, the Adversity Response Profile (ARP) for adversity quotient, and the Mohsin Self-Concept Inventory (MSCI) for self-concept. Analysis involved one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results revealed significant differences in both life satisfaction and self-concept between working and non-working women, with employed individuals reporting higher levels of satisfaction and self-concept. However, no significant difference was observed in adversity quotient between the two groups. These findings suggest that employment status may influence various aspects of psychological well-being differently among women in India. Implications for policy and intervention strategies aimed at enhancing women's overall well-being are discussed.