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Journal of Happiness Studies

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27-03-2021 | Research Paper

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

Authors: Joep van Agteren, Jonathan Bartholomaeus, Emma Steains, Laura Lo, Adam Gerace

Published in: Journal of Happiness Studies | Issue 8/2021

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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.

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Title: Using a Technology-Based Meaning and Purpose Intervention to Improve Well-being: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Joep van Agteren
Jonathan Bartholomaeus
Emma Steains
Laura Lo
Adam Gerace
Publication date: 27-03-2021
Publisher: Springer Netherlands
Published in: Journal of Happiness Studies / Issue 8/2021
Print ISSN: 1389-4978
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7780
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-021-00383-4

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