Positive and negative aspects of well-being: Common and specific predictors

Positive and negative aspects of psychological well-being are two related but also independent constructs. However, a question emerges: are all well-being-related variables indifferently associated with both positive and negative well-being? According to our hypothesis, certain factors are common predictors of both aspects, whereas other factors are specific predictors of each aspect. ‘Common predictors’ are defined as the factors directly related to both positive and negative well-being. ‘Specific factors’ are defined as the factors related to only one aspect of well-being. Specific predictors may also be associated with the other aspect, but this is taking place through the interaction of well-being aspects or through other related variables. Neuroticism, optimism, self-efficacy, stress and coping were tested as possible predictors. Two hundred and one individuals participated (mean age = 41.57 years). A latent variable structural equation model was used to test our assumption. In accordance with our hypotheses, optimism and emotion-focused coping were identified as common predictors. Self-efficacy and positive approach were identified as specific predictors of positive well-being, whereas neuroticism and stress as specific predictors of negative well-being.