The Impact of Meaning in Life on Loneliness’ Relationship with Flourishing and General Well-Being

The basis of this study is in reference to Martin Seligman’s PERMA theory [positive emotions (P), engagement (E), relationships (R), meaning in life (M), and achievement (A)], which is aimed to assist in the understanding of flourishing and well-being (Seligman, 2011). While many of the factors of this theory have been researched, there is limited research on meaning in life. Another factor of PERMA is relationships, the lack of meaningful relationships (loneliness) can serve as a contributing factor to mental health issues and has been found to be negatively linked to well-being and flourishing. The current study aims to analyze the impact of loneliness on flourishing and well-being and how meaning in life may play a role in these associations. It is hypothesized that loneliness will be negatively correlated with well-being and flourishing, but this relationship will be mediated by meaning in life. Data was collected from college students via Qualtrics anonymous online survey. Measures that are used in this study include the UCLA 3-Item Loneliness Scale to measure loneliness, The Meaning in Life Questionnaire to measure meaning in life, The Flourishing Scale to measure flourishing, and the General Well-Being Schedule to measure well-being. Hayes PROCESS Macro through SPSS was utilized for these analyses. While it was not found that meaning in life had a moderating role on these associations, in an exploratory investigation it was found to have a mediating role on both variables. Researchers suggest future research continue to analyze the matter to expand on the PERMA theory. Seligman, M. E. (2011). Flourish: A visionary new understanding of happiness and well-being. Free Press