The relationship between purpose and sources of meaning: A mixed methods study |
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Authors: | Henry D Mason |
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Institution: | Directorate of Higher Education Development and Support, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa |
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Abstract: | This study examined the relationship between meaning and sources of meaning among a sample of South African university students (N = 139; female = 44 0.6%; mean age = 19.76, SD = 1.82). The students completed the Purpose in Life (PIL), the Sources of Meaning Profile-Revised (SOMP-R) measures, and naïve sketches. Results from the data analysis using correlational and regression analyses indicate the students’ purpose of life scores are accounted for by sources of meaning related to self-transcendence, collectivism, and individualism. The findings from the qualitative analysis highlights the importance of an individualist and collectivist focus during academic studies as a source of meaning. Students who report a more extensive network of meaningful sources are also more likely to indicate higher scores on purpose in life. |
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Keywords: | breadth of meaning depth of meaning meaning purpose sources of meaning |
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