Self-Perception, Character Strengths and Happiness Factors among North Indian Adolescents

Abstract

Positive psychology emphasizes the need to study positive traits related to positive human functioning. These traits help individual flourish beyond mere absence of illness. The concept of self and character strengths is made of many such traits. The present study aimed to understand the perceptions of adolescents about self, character strengths and happiness. A total of 1323 adolescents of North India aged 11-19 years (814 male and 509 female, Mean =15.35 years, SD = 1.39) participated in the study. Qualitative data was collected via semi-structured interviews. Recurring themes were identified and percentage of responses in each category was calculated. Results were mostly found to be similar across gender. Majority of adolescents were found to be satisfied with their physical appearance and dressing style. Character strengths like self-regulation, honesty and kindness were found most desirable in the study. Few differences were noted in description of ideal qualities of a man and woman. Present paper describes comprehensively perceived factors related to self, character strengths and happiness among North Indian adolescents.