Abstract
This paper addresses the question as to whether previously reported findings on a positive relation between character
strengths, satisfaction with life, and orientations to happiness (OTH) can be replicated for peer ratings of character
strengths. A sample of 334 Swiss adults completed questionnaires and collected informant ratings by 634 peers. Selfand
peer ratings converged well and suggest that, primarily: the strengths of hope, zest, and curiosity – but also gratitude
and love – play key roles in the interplay of strengths and satisfaction with life. Peer ratings of strengths also
related positively with the endorsement of a pleasurable, engaged, and meaningful life. Further analyses show that
the OTH predict satisfaction with life beyond self- and peer-rated character strengths. There, the engaged life (i.e.
endorsement of flow) was most relevant. This study supports earlier findings that argue for an important role of character
strengths when describing the well-being of a person.
Buschor, Claudia