Related Experiment Videos
Occupations and well-being: a study of personal projects
C H Christiansen1, C Backman, B R Little
1School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston 77555-1028, USA.
Summary
Meaningful occupations are linked to higher subjective well-being (SWB). Project stress negatively impacts SWB, while perceived progress positively influences it, highlighting key factors for mental health.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Occupational Science
Background:
- Subjective well-being (SWB) is a crucial aspect of mental health.
- Understanding the factors influencing SWB is essential for promoting well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between personal occupations and subjective well-being (SWB).
- To identify specific attributes of goal-directed pursuits that predict SWB.
Main Methods:
- 120 adults completed personal projects analysis, SWB measures, and personality inventories.
- Correlational analyses examined links between project characteristics and SWB.
- Multiple regression identified predictors of SWB from project attributes, personality, and demographics.
Main Results:
- Project stress and difficulty were negatively correlated with SWB.
- Perceived progress in projects positively correlated with SWB.
- Stress and efficacy emerged as key project predictors; sensing and extraversion interacted with stress.
Conclusions:
- Attributes of meaningful occupations significantly relate to perceived well-being.
- Personal project characteristics, particularly stress and efficacy, are important determinants of SWB.