• Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society
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• v.19 no.5
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• pp.499-508
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• 2018

The purpose of this study was to compare the degree of happiness between mothers of preschoolers (3-5yrs) and mothers of elementary school students (6-7yrs). The subjects of this study included 168 mothers of preschoolers and 170 mothers of elementary school students. They were randomly chosen. We measured and analyzed 338 mothers' happiness using Ryff's psychological well-being items. The results of this study reveal that although overall happiness level was similar, the two groups of mothers' happiness had statistically significant differences in 6 factors of mothers' happiness. Preschooler mothers had higher levels of happiness in autonomy and personal growth, while elementary school student mothers had higher levels of happiness in environment mastery, positive relationships, purpose of life, and self-acceptance. Also, the background of mothers, such as age, educational status, family income, and religion caused statistically significant differences in happiness level of both groups.