Men, Women and the American Dream

          According to the current American Dream Composite Index (ADCI) findings, men are achieving their American Dream at a slightly higher level than women—64.80 and 63.18 respectively.  Although it is still too early to determine the stability of this trend, we can look to past social science research to provide some context or perspective regarding this finding.

Historically, women compared to men have been observed to have more troubled psychological profiles.  Women typically report lower levels of internal control and morale and higher levels of depression compared to men.  One study by Carol D. Ryff found that across the six psychological well-being dimensions of self-acceptance, positive relations with others, autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and personal growth, women scored significantly higher than men on the positive relations with others and personal growth dimensions (no other significant differences across men and women were found).   

As we continue to regularly track the American Dream, we can pay special attention to differences across the sexes on the various ADCI indices (and sub-indices) in order to better understand the extent to which these two groups are realizing their American Dream.