Effects of Gratitude On Happiness

Relationship between Gratitude and Happiness in College Students

Introduction
The present research explored the relationship between gratitude and happiness in college students. It was hypothesized that there would be a significant relationship between gratitude and happiness, and that gratitude would be a predictor of happiness among college students.

Participants
The sample comprised 100 college students, with an equal number of girls and boys (50 each), drawn from both private and public colleges in Lahore.

Method
To assess happiness and gratitude, the Subjective Happiness Scale by Sonja Lyubomirsky and Lepper (1999) and the Gratitude Questionnaire-Six Item Form (GQ-6) by McCullough, Emmons, and Tsang (2001) were utilized. Statistical analyses, including Pearson product moment correlation, Simple Linear regression, and independent sample t-tests, were applied to generate results.

Results and Discussion
The results indicated a significant positive relationship between gratitude and happiness (r=.89). Gratitude was also found to be a predictor of happiness in college students. No significant gender differences were observed in the levels of gratitude and happiness. However, a significant difference was noted in gratitude and happiness levels between first-year and final-year students. These findings suggest the importance of fostering gratitude tendencies in Pakistani youth, as it is positively associated with their happiness.

Part A: Identify the research method used in the study.

Part B: State the operational definition of happiness.

Describe the strength or weakness of correlation in this study.

Identify at least one ethical guideline applied by the researchers.

Explain the extent to which the research findings may or may not be generalizable using specific and relevant evidence from the study.

Explain how at least one of the research findings supports or refutes the researchers' hypothesis that there would be a significant relationship between gratitude and happiness and that gratitude would be a predictor of happiness among college students.