Psychological Well-Being, Happiness, and Life Satisfaction Across Age Groups of Athletes and Non-athletes

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The present study examined psychological well-being, life satisfaction, and happiness among athletes and non-athletes across different age groups. Methods: A causal-comparative design was employed in 2022 - 2023 with 610 participants from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province. Participants were selected using proportional stratified cluster sampling. Psychological well-being, life satisfaction, and happiness were assessed using Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWS), Diener’s Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Lyubomirsky and Lepper’s Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) in SPSS 26. Results: The findings revealed a significant difference between athletes and non-athletes in psychological well-being, happiness, and life satisfaction (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Regular sports participation is associated with higher psychological well-being, life satisfaction, and happiness. Policymakers should encourage physical activity through accessible programs to improve both mental and physical health.