Investigate the mediating role of value orientation in predicting life satisfaction based on dark and light personality traits and emotional differentiation

Introduction: Life satisfaction is influenced by personality traits, including dark and light personality traits, and emotional differentiation. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of value orientation in predicting life satisfaction based on dark and light personality traits and emotional differentiation. Method: In this descriptive, correlational study, the structural equation modeling was applied. The statistical population consisted of people, referred to the health centers of Tabriz, Iran, in 2022. A total of 400 people were selected by the available sampling method. For data collection, the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) by Diner et al., Johnson & Webster's Dark Triad Personality (DTP) Questionnaire, Light Triple Personality (LTP) Questionnaire by Kaufman et al., Drake and Murdock's Differentiation of Self Inventory-Short Form (DSI-SF), and Schwartz's Value Survey (SVS) were used. For data analysis, the structural equation modeling in AMOS software was applied. Results: The results indicated the direct significant role of dark (β=-0.38) and light (β=0.34) personality traits, as well as emotional differentiation (β=0.29) in predicting life satisfaction. Besides, an indirect relationship was found between these variables and life satisfaction, with the mediating role of value orientation (P<0.05). Conclusion: The component of value orientation mediated the relationship between life satisfaction and dark/light personality traits and emotional differentiation. These findings can have practical implications for counselors and psychologists to increase life satisfaction.