Development of changes in virtues and character strengths in Adulthood: Regarding gender differences

Development of changes in virtues and character strengths in Adulthood: Regarding gender differencesAbstractThe purpose of this study was investigating development of virtues and character strengths in adults during emerging adulthood through middle 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) and completed the Valuse In Action Inventory of Strengths(Peterson and Seligman, 2003). Findings revealed that the majority of character strengths changed over time. In terms of creativity, perspective 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 showed that courageous, prosperity and judgment (critical thinking) were significant in 18-29 year olds, self-regulation in 30 to 39 year olds, bravery, perseverance, honesty, love and forgiveness in 40-49year olds.