Factors Affecting the Life Satisfaction of Undergraduates in Rajarata University of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the life satisfaction of undergraduates in Rajarata University of Sri Lanka. Life satisfaction was considered as the dependent variable while personality, separation and homesickness, interpersonal relationship, stress and university facilities were considered as independent variables. The study sample comprised of 130 randomly selected students from five faculties in the university including 2nd year to 4th year undergraduates. A questionnaire required allowed respondents to mark the responses and a five-point Likert scale was used to collect the data from the undergraduates and the response rate was 100%. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data collected. Mean score and standard deviation were used for all the variables and univariate analysis and correlation coefficient were used as bivariate analysis. The results indicated that the level of life satisfaction of the Rajarata University undergraduates was in lower level and no significant differences were noticed relating to gender, faculties, region and academic year. Despite the significant positive relationship between university facilities and life satisfaction, a significant negative correlation was identified between undergraduates’ life satisfaction and independent study variables such as personality, interpersonal relationship, separation and homesickness and stress.