Main description:

This book offers an inspiring exploration of current findings from the psychology of meaning in life, analysing cutting-edge research to propose practical, evidence-based applications. Schnell draws on psychological, philosophical and cognitive perspectives to explore basic concepts of meaning and introduce a multidimensional model of meaning in life.

Written in an accessible style, this book covers a range of topics including the distinction between meaning and happiness, the impact of meaning on health and longevity, meaning in the workplace, and meaning-centred interventions. Each chapter ends with exercises to encourage self-reflection and measurement tools are presented throughout, including the author's original Sources of Meaning and Meaning in Life Questionnaire (SoMe), to inspire the reader to consider the role of meaning in their own life.

The Psychology of Meaning in Life is essential reading for students and practitioners of psychology, sociology, counselling, coaching and related disciplines, and for general readers interested in exploring the role of meaning in life.

Contents:

Chapter 1: Searching for Meaning?

Chapter 2: Defining Meaning

Chapter 3: Measuring Meaning in Life

Chapter 4: Meaning as Attribution

Chapter 5: Varieties of Meaning

Chapter 6: Sources of Meaning

Chapter 7: The Social Dimension of Meaning in Life

Chapter 8: Crises of Meaning - When Foundations Shake

Chapter 9: Existential Indifference

Chapter 10: Meaning and Happiness

Chapter 11: Meaning, Health and Illness

Chapter 12: Meaning-Centred Interventions

Chapter 13: Meaning in Work

Chapter 14: Outlook