Gender Differences in the Indices of Positive Youth Development and Happiness

The present study aimed to examine gender differences in positive youth development (PYD) and happiness,as well as gender differences in the relationship between the five Cs of PYD and happiness. A sample of 500 students (undergraduate and postgraduate) with an age range of 17-22 years (mean age 19.74 years) was selected based on availability from the different institutes/ departments of Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak. Gender differences in five Cs of PYD and happiness were studied by applying t-test. Results showed that females scored significantly higher onconfidence, caring and connection. No gender differences were observed on competence, character and as well as on happiness. Correlation and regression analysis was applied separately for males and females in order to examine the gender differences in the relationship between the five Cs and happiness. The results of the present study highlight the need to design some gender-specific actions and programmes to foster and promote the five Cs of PYD in order to enhance happiness among youth.