Gender Differences in Marital and Life Satisfaction among Chinese Malaysians

This study examined gender differences in marital and life satisfaction in a convenience sample of 425 Chinese Malaysian men (41%) and women (59%). Consistent with findings in many Western cultures, gender role theory predictions were supported in this study. While controlling for age and education, MANCOVA tests revealed men reporting higher levels of marital satisfaction than women, whereas gender differences in life satisfaction were not found. Hierarchical regression analyses showed marital satisfaction significantly predicted life satisfaction for both men and women, but the influence was greater for women. Results are discussed with reference to the Chinese Malaysian cultural context.