ENHANCING LIFE SATISFACTION THROUGH GRATITUDE: AN INTERVENTION STUDY WITH ORPHANED ADULTS IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Gratitude journaling promotes a positive mindset by allowing people to focus on positive things in their lives. Which increases overall life satisfaction.  Given the potential benefits associated with gratitude practices for mental wellness, this study uses a randomized controlled trial design with an experimental group receiving the gratitude intervention and a control group undergoing no intervention. The intervention consisted of a 7-day gratitude practice with assessments taken before, immediately after and, at 15-day follow-up to assess changes in life satisfaction and gratitude ratings. Data was collected by using a purposive sample 28 orphans (15 men, 13 women; age range 18-25 years) from several hostels in Lahore. The current study's focal construct was measured using the Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-6) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Both scales revealed satisfactory levels of internal consistency. Statistical analysis was utilized to examine the differences in life satisfaction and gratitude scores between the experimental and control groups; non-parametric tests such as the Friedman test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used. It was discovered that practicing gratitude increased both gratitude and life satisfaction significantly. Limitations and implications of the current study were highlighted and suggestions for future research were discussed.