PURPOSE IN LIFE
Purpose in Life: A Key Component of Mental Health
Purpose in life is a concept that is studied in psychology and related fields. It is a subjective sense of having meaning, direction, and intention in one’s life, and it is closely associated with mental health and wellbeing (Steger, 2012; Steger & Kashdan, 2009). Purpose in life has been linked to a variety of positive psychological outcomes, such as decreased risk of depression (Steger, 2012), greater life satisfaction (Steger & Kashdan, 2009), and increased levels of engagement in meaningful activities (Steger & Kashdan, 2009). In addition, purpose in life can be seen as a protective factor against the development of mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression (Steger, 2012; Steger & Kashdan, 2009).
Purpose in life is associated with a variety of psychological constructs, such as self-determination theory (SDT; Ryan & Deci, 2000) and positive psychological functioning (Ryff & Keyes, 1995). According to SDT, individuals with a sense of purpose in life are more likely to have higher levels of self-determination, which is linked to greater psychological wellbeing (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Furthermore, the research on positive psychological functioning suggests that individuals with a greater sense of purpose in life are more likely to have higher levels of psychological wellbeing (Ryff & Keyes, 1995).
Given the importance of purpose in life for mental health and wellbeing, it is important to examine how individuals can cultivate this construct. Research suggests that individuals can develop a sense of purpose in life by engaging in activities that are personally meaningful and important to them (Steger & Kashdan, 2009). For example, individuals can engage in activities that align with their values, such that their actions and behaviors are in line with what is important and meaningful to them (Steger & Kashdan, 2009). Additionally, individuals can also engage in activities that involve helping or serving others, such as volunteering or mentoring (Steger & Kashdan, 2009). These activities can help individuals to connect to something larger than themselves, which can provide a sense of purpose in life (Steger & Kashdan, 2009).
Overall, purpose in life is a key component of mental health and wellbeing, and it is important for individuals to cultivate this construct in order to experience positive psychological outcomes. Individuals can cultivate a sense of purpose in life by engaging in activities that are personally meaningful and important to them, such as those that align with their values or involve helping or serving others.
References
Ryff, C. D., & Keyes, C. L. M. (1995). The structure of psychological well-being revisited. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 69(4), 719–727. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.69.4.719
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68
Steger, M. F. (2012). Meaning in life. In J. F. Bohlmeijer, E. W. Welzel, & M. F. Steger (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Meaning in Life (pp. 29–42). Oxford University Press.
Steger, M. F., & Kashdan, T. B. (2009). Purpose in life as a system that creates and sustains health and wellbeing. In C. R. Snyder & S. J. Lopez (Eds.), Oxford Handbook of Positive Psychology (2nd ed., pp. 613–624). Oxford University Press.
