Perceived Discrimination and Happiness Among Tribal Unmarried Mothers

The present study aimed to understand the relationship between perceived discrimination and happiness among tribal unmarried mothers. The sample included 30 tribal unmarried mothers from the Wayanad district in Kerala, India. Data were collected using a socio-demographic response sheet, Oxford happiness questionnaire (Short form), and everyday discrimination scale. Mann–Whitney U test showed that tribal unmarried mothers did not differ in happiness concerning their income, education, putative father from the same tribe or not, and living status. Compared to those with higher income, mothers with lower income were higher in perceived discrimination. Correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship between perceived discrimination and happiness. Regression analysis confirmed that perceived discrimination is a negative predictor of happiness.