Lauren J. Leach¹, Celia R. Hayhoe²and Pamela R. Turner³

A gender analysis of factors influencing perceptions of economic well-being can help financial counselors understand their clients' needs. The effects of selected perceptual and objective information variables on perceived economic well-being are mediated by comparison of economic outcomes and level of financial strain. The subjects of the study were 427 college students over age 18 who attended one of five state-sponsored universities. Male and female students differ in the significance of factors affecting the mediators and perceived economic well-being. These differences need to be understood to tailor advice and teaching of skills in order to optimize well-being.
Key Words: Gender differences, Perceived economic well-being, College students

1. Lauren J. Leach, Assistant Professor, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville MO 64468. Phone: 660-562-1851. E-mail: LLEACH@mail.nwmissouri.edu

2. Celia R. Hayhoe, Assistant Professor, University of Kentucky, Department of Family Studies, 315 Funkhouser, Lexington, KY 40506-0054. Phone: 606-257-7745. E-mail: CRHAYH1@pop.uky.edu

3. Pamela R. Turner, Director of Housing, Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Dallas, 8737 King George Drive, Dallas, TX 75235. Phone: 214-638-2227. E-mail: pamela@cccs.net