Identity Resilience, Relationships, and Life Satisfaction: Data from Two Cross-sectional Survey Studies in the United Kingdom

Counseling interventions can help facilitate feelings of life satisfaction in clients seeking support. Two studies examined the system of social psychological factors associated with life satisfaction in the United Kingdom (UK). In Study 1, cross-sectional survey data from 544 heterosexual and LGB people were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. Being in a relationship, self-esteem and continuity were positively associated with life satisfaction. In Study 2, cross-sectional survey data from 202 heterosexual and gay men, also analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression, showed that relationship satisfaction and self-esteem were positively associated with life satisfaction. In both studies, there were no differences by sexual orientation or gender, and self-esteem was the strongest predictor of life satisfaction. Counseling interventions that focus on building a stronger sense of identity resilience (self-esteem and continuity) and, for partnered individuals, relationship satisfaction, may enhance life satisfaction.