Personality, religion and character traits : are personality traits better predictors of happiness than religiosity?
Authors
Barrie, Arthur
Issue Date
2012
Degree
BA (Hons) in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect religion, age and gender have on happiness and to identify any differences that may be evident. Questionnaires were given to participants by hard copy or email link. The participants (N=76) consisted of 41 males (n=41) and 35 females (n=35) and it was a sample of convenience with a snowballing effect. Results showed that there was a statistically significant main effect for religion, although no significant effect was found for age or gender. Positive correlations were found between some character traits and happiness. Linear regression modelling provided a 1.2% change in results when adjusted for religion. The study shows that character traits were better predictors for happiness than religion. Author keywords: Religion, personality traits