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Experiential appreciation as a pathway to meaning in life

Author

Listed:
  • Jinhyung Kim

    (Sogang University)

  • Patricia Holte

    (Texas A&M University)

  • Frank Martela

    (Aalto University)

  • Colin Shanahan

    (Texas A&M University)

  • Zhanhong Li

    (Tsinghua University)

  • Hong Zhang

    (Nanjing University)

  • Nikolett Eisenbeck

    (Universidad de Sevilla)

  • David F. Carreno

    (Universidad de Almería)

  • Rebecca J. Schlegel

    (Texas A&M University)

  • Joshua A. Hicks

    (Texas A&M University)

Abstract

A key research program within the meaning in life (MIL) literature aims to identify the key contributors to MIL. The experience of existential mattering, purpose in life and a sense of coherence are currently posited as three primary contributors to MIL. However, it is unclear whether they encompass all information people consider when judging MIL. Based on the ideas of classic and contemporary MIL scholars, the current research examines whether valuing one’s life experiences, or experiential appreciation, constitutes another unique contributor to MIL. Across seven studies, we find support for the idea that experiential appreciation uniquely predicts subjective judgements of MIL, even after accounting for the contribution of mattering, purpose and coherence to these types of evaluations. Overall, these findings support the hypothesis that valuing one’s experiences is uniquely tied to perceptions of meaning. Implications for the incorporation of experiential appreciation as a fundamental antecedent of MIL are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Jinhyung Kim & Patricia Holte & Frank Martela & Colin Shanahan & Zhanhong Li & Hong Zhang & Nikolett Eisenbeck & David F. Carreno & Rebecca J. Schlegel & Joshua A. Hicks, 2022. "Experiential appreciation as a pathway to meaning in life," Nature Human Behaviour, Nature, vol. 6(5), pages 677-690, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nathum:v:6:y:2022:i:5:d:10.1038_s41562-021-01283-6
    DOI: 10.1038/s41562-021-01283-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Wim Muijnck, 2013. "The Meaning of Lives and the Meaning of Things," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 14(4), pages 1291-1307, August.
    2. Michael Steger & Todd Kashdan, 2007. "Stability and specificity of meaning in life and life satisfaction over one year," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 8(2), pages 161-179, June.
    3. Neal Krause, 2003. "Religious Meaning and Subjective Well-Being in Late Life," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 58(3), pages 160-170.
    4. Rudd, Melanie & Vohs, Kathleen D. & Aaker, Jennifer, 2012. "Awe Expands People's Perception of Time, Alters Decision Making, and Enhances Well-Being," Research Papers 2095, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business.
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