Gender Differences of Resilience among Young Adults in Punjab Province

Abstract

Resilience enables positive adaptation when facing adversities and is vital for young adults’ healthy adjustment and wellbeing. This study examined relationships between resilience and psychosocial factors like self-esteem, self-efficacy, presence of meaning in life, search for meaning in life, social support, satisfaction with life, and grit among 420 young adults (aged 18-22 years) in Punjab, Pakistan. The prevalence of risk factors like unemployment, poverty, discrimination, violence and political conflict adversely impact youths in developing nations like Pakistan. However, resilience resources can promote effective coping and adaptation.

A correlational research design was utilized and participants from various colleges/universities completed validated self-report scales measuring the study variables. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlations. Results revealed significant small to moderate positive relationships between resilience and most psychosocial variables. Self-efficacy had the highest correlation, followed by presence of meaning in life, grit, self-esteem and social support subscales. An independent samples t-test further showed females scoring higher than males on resilience and some factors like self-esteem and social support. Findings align with prior evidence that positive self-appraisals, life purpose, perseverance and relationships can bolster resilience and adaptive outcomes when encountering major stressors. Developing such psychosocial competencies is vital for disadvantaged youths frequently facing socioeconomic and political adversities in impoverished Pakistan. Study implications include need for multicomponent youth empowerment interventions targeting self-efficacy, meaning, grit and social skills to promote wellbeing. Universities should offer resilience-based counseling and positive education. Providing psychosocial resources and support can aid resilience and success among vulnerable young adults in arduous developing contexts.