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Life-span differences in life satisfaction, self-concept, and locus of control
J B Morganti1, M F Nehrke, I M Hulicka
1State University College, Buffalo.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This study found that life satisfaction and self-concept improve with age, while locus of control shifts towards internal orientation. These psychological well-being measures show reliable age differences when controlling for variables.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Existing research on age-related changes in psychological well-being shows inconsistent findings.
- Previous studies often focused on specific demographics, like institutionalized elderly males.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age and sex differences in life satisfaction, self-concept, and locus of control across the lifespan.
- To extend previous research by examining a non-institutionalized, diverse sample.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Participants included males and females across six age groups, ranging from 14 to 94 years.
- Life satisfaction, self-concept, and locus of control were measured.
Main Results:
- Significant age effects were found for locus of control.
- Both age and sex significantly impacted self-concept.
- Life satisfaction demonstrated significant age and sex main effects, along with a significant interaction.
- Adolescents and young adults generally reported lower self-concept, life satisfaction, and more external locus of control compared to older groups.
Conclusions:
- Life satisfaction and self-concept appear to be reliable indicators of psychological well-being across the lifespan.
- Controlling for moderating variables is crucial for demonstrating reliable age differences in psychological well-being.
- The findings suggest a general trend of increasing psychological well-being with age, though individual variations exist.