Relationships between Affect and Short-Term Life Satisfaction: Considering the Activation Dimension and Balance of Affect

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between affect and short-term life satisfaction (LS) taking into account the dimensions of activation and balance of PA and NA. The study included 398 students (184 men and 214 women) who completed six questionnaires, three of which were used for another study. The Positive and Negative Affect Schedule was utilized for assessing activated PA and NA. Two subscales (deactivated pleasure and boredom) of the Multiple Mood Scale were used for measuring deactivated PA and NA, and the Short-term Life Satisfaction Scale was used for gauging short-term LS. Correlation analyses and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationships between affect balance (PA-NA and PA/NA) and LS. The results of correlation and scattergram analyses showed that LS displayed positive linear associations with affect balance in both activated and deactivated dimensions. Additionally, hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed a significant interaction between activated PA and NA in women, and indicated that the positive relationship between activated PA and LS in women was strengthened when levels of activated NA were lower. We discuss the importance of considering subtypes within and relationships between PA and NA and overall implications for health/adjustment.