A Cross-cultural Analysis of Optimism Level, Academic Achievement, and Subjective Happiness among University Students

Abstract

Background. This study examined the influence of university students’ optimism on their academic performance and subjective well-being in two provinces of Pakistan, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Method. The sample comprised 301 university students from Punjab (n=151) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (n=150), with a distribution of 130 men and 171 females. Convenient sampling was employed for data collection.
Results. The correlational study found a statistically significant positive relationship between university students’ optimism, academic accomplishment, and subjective happiness. The statistical research further reveals that optimism is a powerful predictor of subjective satisfaction and academic accomplishment among university students. An analysis of gender revealed that females exhibit higher levels of subjective pleasure and academic achievement compared to males. Moreover, the comparison analysis indicated that students from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) universities exhibit higher levels of optimism and obtain
superior academic results compared to their counterparts from universities in Punjab.
Conclusion. The findings of this study will be advantageous for future researchers and professionals in psychology and counseling, as they can utilize them to cultivate positive coping strategies in young individuals. This, in turn, can lead to improved academic prospects and enhanced personal well-being.