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

Background: In contemporary research, happiness has emerged as a focal construct within the field of positive psychological well-being. Empirical studies indicate a reciprocal relationship between happiness and health, with happiness being 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 multi-stage sampling, this cross-sectional study was conducted on 383 males and females referred to health care centers in Neyshabur, Iran, in 2023. Data were collected using a demographic characteristics questionnaire and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed using SPSS version 22, with a significance level set at P<0.05. Results: The mean age (SD) of middle-aged males and females was 40.12 (7.79) and 40.01 (7.13), respectively. The results showed no statistically significant difference in happiness by gender (P>0.05). Physical activity was an independent predictor of happiness among both groups. Nutritional pattern, education level, and the presence of chronic diseases were independent predictors of happiness among females, while age, wealth index, and marital status were independent predictors of happiness among males (P<0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of promoting physical activity among middle-aged males and females. Additionally, it suggests encouraging smoking cessation among female smokers and adopting healthy nutritional patterns to increase happiness. In addition, middle-aged people with chronic diseases and those with a low wealth index need special attention to maintain optimal happiness.