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Using a Technology-Based Meaning and Purpose Intervention to Improve Well-being: A Randomised Controlled Study

Author

Listed:
  • Joep Agteren

    (South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
    Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University)

  • Jonathan Bartholomaeus

    (South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
    University of Adelaide)

  • Emma Steains

    (South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute)

  • Laura Lo

    (South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute)

  • Adam Gerace

    (Central Queensland University)

Abstract

Increasing the saliency of existing sources of meaning and purpose in life could be a practical focus area for innovative wellbeing interventions. This randomised controlled study aimed to assess the impact of a brief seven-day technology-based intervention on meaning in life, life satisfaction, and affect compared to a waitlist control group. A mobile phone application was used to deliver daily activities and momentary reflection questions. Significant improvements where observed in the presence of meaning in life (p = .02, η2 = .05), life satisfaction (p = .00, η2 = .08) and positive affect (p = .02, η2 = 0.05) for the intervention versus the control group. Ecological momentary assessment data found increases in life satisfaction and meaning in life (b = 0.044, p = .041) and shed insight into activities that fostered fulfillment. These findings pave the way for future meaning and purpose interventions to build mental health and well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Joep Agteren & Jonathan Bartholomaeus & Emma Steains & Laura Lo & Adam Gerace, 2021. "Using a Technology-Based Meaning and Purpose Intervention to Improve Well-being: A Randomised Controlled Study," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 22(8), pages 3571-3591, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:22:y:2021:i:8:d:10.1007_s10902-021-00383-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-021-00383-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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