Development of Changes in Virtues and Character Strengths in Adulthood with Regard to Gender Differences

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate development of virtues and character strengths in adults during emerging adulthood in women and men of Isfahan. Research was planned in the framework of cross-sectional research in the form of a comparative causal research design. Using available sampling method a sample of 340 (170 females and 170 males) was selected from four age groups (18-29, 30-39, 40- 49 and 50-59 year-olds). The subjects were asked to complete the Valuse in Action Inventory of Strengths (Peterson and Seligman). Findings revealed that mean scores of the majority of character strengths changed over time. In terms of creativity, perceptive and love of learning, honesty, perseverance and zest, social intelligence, self-regulation, prudence and humility, hope, humor and gratitude, fairness and citizenship increased in the age group of 30-39, but decreased in the 50-59 year olds. Also, there was a significant difference between men and women; women had higher mean scores. The results showed that in all character strengths, women of all age groups scored higher than men. Independent t-test results in the gender groups showed that there was significant differences in courageous, prosperity and judgment (critical thinking) in 18-29 year olds, self-regulation in 30 to 39 year olds, bravery, perseverance, honesty, love and forgiveness in 40-49year olds; and mean scores of women were higher than men. Findings were discussed based on related theoretical and empirical literature.

Keywords

• development
• virtues and personality character strengths
• adulthood
• emerging adulthood
• gender