Beyond the Search for Meaning

A Contemporary Science of the Experience of Meaning in Life

Bibliographic Data

ID23333595
AuthorsLaura A King (0000-0002-3753-2575, University of Missouri, corresponding author), Samantha J Heintzelman (0000-0003-4442-6882, University of Virginia), Sarah Ward (0000-0002-2155-9482, University of Missouri), Sarah J Ward (University of Missouri)
Year2016
Volume25
Issue4
Pages211-216
Publication date2016-08-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCurrent Directions in Psychological Science (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0963-7214 • E-ISSN: 1467-8721
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0963721416656354
OpenAlexW2478262230
LanguageEN
Citations received56
References cited39

Recent advances in the science of meaning in life have taught us a great deal about the nature of the experience of meaning in life, its antecedents and consequences, and its potential functions. Conclusions based on self-report measures of meaning in life indicate that, as might be expected, it is associated with many aspects of positive functioning. However, this research also indicates that the experience of meaning in life may come from unexpectedly quotidian sources, including positive mood and coherent life experiences. Moreover, the experience of meaning in life may be quite a bit more commonplace than is often portrayed. Attending to the emerging science of meaning in life suggests not only potentially surprising conclusions but new directions for research on this important aspect of well-being.

Epistemology · Meaning (existential) · Meaning of life · Mood · Psychotherapist · Purpose in life · Death Anxiety and Social Exclusion · Optimism, Hope, and Well-being · Philosophy · Psychological Well-being and Life Satisfaction · Psychology · Social Psychology

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