Meaning in Life and Psychological Well-Being in Reference to Gender and Age Groups: Comparative Analysis

The experience of adulthood is shaped by evolving responsibilities and aspirations that influence psychological functioning. Meaning in life reflects an individual’s sense of purpose, significance, and direction in life, whereas psychological well-being represents positive psychological functioning and the ability to manage life effectively while maintaining personal growth and fulfilling relationships. Both constructs are important for understanding how individuals experience and maintain positive functioning across different stages of adulthood. Within this context, meaning in life and psychological well-being are central dimensions reflecting individuals’ sense of purpose and positive mental health. The present study compares meaning in life and psychological well-being among young and middle-aged adults in reference to gender. Using simple random sampling, 140 participants were selected from Nainital, Almora, and Champawat districts of the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand, comprising equal numbers of males and females (70 each), further divided into young and middle-aged adults with 35 participants in each group.