Extraversion As a Correlate of Psychologically Rich Life A Cross-Cultural Study

A psychologically rich life (PRL) is distinct from happiness or meaning, emphasising variety, interest, and perspective-changing experiences. Extraversion, one of the Big Five personality traits, is characterized by sociability, enthusiasm, and positive emotionality, and is a potential predictor of PRL. This cross-cultural study examined the relationship between PRL and facets of extraversion among 300 participants (150 Kenyans and 150 Indians) aged 20–40 years. Participants were assessed on psychological richness and extraversion. Results revealed significant cultural differences in psychologically rich life and facets of extraversion. The Kenyans scored significantly higher on psychological richness in life compared to Indians. The Indians scored higher on warmth, assertiveness, activity, and excitement-seeking, while both groups displayed similar levels of gregariousness and positive emotions. Correlational analysis indicated that PRL was positively associated with gregariousness, assertiveness, and positive emotions for the Kenyans, while warmth was significantly associated with PRL in Indians. These findings suggest that the role of extraversion facets in psychologically rich life among Indians and Kenyans reflects the interplay of cultural norms, societal values, and individual personality traits. While both countries are collectivist to varying degrees, their unique cultural contexts shape how extraversion is expressed and experienced, thereby influencing psychologically rich life differently