Gender-Based Differences in Happiness and Its Determinants among Iranian Middle-aged Males and Females: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: In contemporary research, the construct of happiness has emerged as a focal point of investigation within the realm of positive psychological well-being. Empirical studies indicate a reciprocal relationship between happiness and health, wherein happiness is identified as a significant contributor to both physical and mental health outcomes. Therefore, the present study investigated happiness and its socioeconomic predictors among middle-aged Iranian males and females. Methods: Using stratified random sampling, this cross-sectional study was performed on 383 males and females referred to health care centers in Neyshabur city, Iran, in 2023. Data were collected using a demographic characteristics questionnaire and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. The multiple linear regression analysis was performed for statistical analysis using SPSS version 22, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age (SD) of males and females middle-aged were 40.12 (7.79) and 40.01 (7.13), respectively. The results showed no statistically significant difference in happiness by gender (p-value > 0.05). Physical activity was an independent predictor of happiness among middle-aged males and females. The nutritional pattern, education level and having chronic diseases were independent predictors of happiness among females, and age, wealth index and marital status were independent predictors of happiness among males (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of increasing the physical activity of middle-aged males and females. Also, it suggested quitting smoking for female smokers and choosing healthy nutrition patterns to increase happiness. In addition, middle-aged people who have chronic diseases and who have a low wealth index need more attention to maintain optimal happiness.

Keywords: Happiness, Male, Female, Middle Aged, Nutrition, Wealth