Journal article
College Students' Perceptions of Meaning in Life as a Mediator of Optimal Mental Health
International Journal of Existential Positive Psychology, Vol.9(2)
2020
Abstract
This study focused on two dimensions of meaning in life, presence and searching, and their effects on psychological well-being in the domains of depression, anxiety, and overall happiness among a college population. Because surveys on college and university life have consistently illustrated students struggle with depression and anxiety, this study targeted meaning in life as a potential protective factor. Instruments utilized were the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ), Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Results suggest that Meaning in Life (MIL) is important for life satisfaction and as a buffer against depression. A moderate negative relationship between depression and MIL (Presence) and depression and happiness were also evident. Finally, results suggest a weak negative relationship between anxiety and MIL (Search and Presence) and happiness.
Details
- Title
- College Students' Perceptions of Meaning in Life as a Mediator of Optimal Mental Health
- Authors
- Shannon Hodges (Author) - Niagara UniversityKristine Augustyniak (Author) - Niagara UniversityVincent J Rinaldo (Author) - Niagara University
- Publication details
- International Journal of Existential Positive Psychology, Vol.9(2)
- Publisher
- International Network on Personal Meaning
- ISSN
- 2817-5018
- Organisation Unit
- School of Law and Society
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99749698902621
- Output Type
- Journal article
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11 Record Views