The Relationship Between Social Adaptability, Psychological Distress, and Parental Attitude on Life Satisfaction among Malaysian Young Adults

Abstract

Life satisfaction is important because it promotes overall well-being, fostering a sense of purpose and happiness, which can lead to healthier, more fulfilling lives. This study thus aimed at examining the relationship between social adaptability, psychological distress and parental attitude on life satisfaction among the Malaysian young adults. Adapting quantitative method with a set of questionnaires that involved 400 public and private Malaysian university students. The results shows that the respondents have a high social adaptability, moderate psychological distress and both responsive and demanding parental attitude with high life satisfaction. Meanwhile, there was a positive significant correlation between social adaptability and parental attitude with life satisfaction, and a negative correlation between psychological distress with life satisfaction. Social adaptability shows the strongest predictor to life satisfaction among the respondents. This study suggests that by increased life satisfaction, cultivating social adaptability can help foster stronger connections and resilience in the face of change, while addressing psychological distress through therapy or self-care can improve overall well-being. Additionally, developing a positive parental attitude by being empathetic, supportive, and open-minded can strengthen family bonds and contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life.