Prosociality enhances meaning in life |
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| Authors: | Daryl R Van Tongeren Jeffrey D Green Don E Davis Joshua N Hook Timothy L Hulsey |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Psychology, Schaap Science Center, Hope College, 35 E. 12th Street, Holland, MI 49422-9000, USA;2. Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 842018, 806 West Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23220, USA;3. Department of Counseling and Psychological Services, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA;4. Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #311270, Denton, TX 76203, USA;5. Honors and Scholars Program, University of Tennessee, 1640 Cumberland Avenue, Suite 130, Knoxville, TN 37996-3341, USA |
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| Abstract: | A central feature of meaning in life is a consideration of more than oneself. We extend this logic to suggest that altruistically motivated prosociality – acting in ways that benefit others – is a self-transcending action that may provide meaning in life. Study 1 provided evidence of a relationship between self-reported prosocial behavior and meaning in life, even after statistically controlling for personality traits and self-esteem. Study 2 provided evidence that engaging in a prosocial action, via writing notes of gratitude, increased meaning in life. Study 3 provided evidence that individuals bolster perceptions of prosociality following threats to meaning. Study 4 suggested relationship satisfaction partially mediates the link between prosocial actions and meaning in life. These studies provide initial evidence that prosociality enhances meaning in life. |
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| Keywords: | prosocial meaning morality relationships |
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