Psychometric properties and longitudinal correlates of multidimensional existential meaning scale among Chinese young adults

Abstract

Meaning in Life (MIL) has been a long-standing enquiry of mankind. Yet, definitions and measures of MIL had remained ambiguous and non-consensual. In recent years, a tripartite model of MIL comprises Comprehension, Purpose, and Mattering has been proposed to integrate existing definitions of MIL. A psychometrically-sound measurement tool – the Multidimensional Existential Meaning Scale (MEMS) was subsequently developed. The current research comprises two studies, which aimed to validate the Chinese version of the MEMS (C-MEMS) among Chinese young adults in their emerging adulthood. Its psychometric properties and longitudinal correlates were also examined. Study 1 was conducted to examine the psychometric properties of the C-MEMS. Four hundred and seventy-two Chinese young adults aged between 18 and 29 were recruited. MIL was assessed by the C-MEMS and the Presence Subscale of the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ-P). Theoretically-related constructs were measured by Self-concept Clarity Scale (SCCS), Behavioural Activation Scale (BAS), and Daily Spirituality Experiences Scale (DSES). Wellbeing was measured by Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Flourishing Scale (FS), Scale of Positive and Negative Experience (SPANE), and the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21). Study 2 was a follow-up study conducted to examine the stability, specificity, and longitudinal correlates of the C-MEMS and its subscales. Two hundred and twenty-nine participants from Study 1 completed the 3-month follow-up. Apart from CMEMS, SWLS and DASS-21, an additional measure of loneliness, the UCLA Loneliness Scale – 10 item version (ULS-10) was also included. Results of Study 1 suggested that the CMEMS had a bifactor structure, as well as good construct validity and reliability. Results of Study 2 showed high temporal stability of the C-MEMS and specificity of its subscales. The C-MEMS was longitudinally correlated with life satisfaction, negative emotional symptoms, and loneliness. Moreover, negative emotional symptoms negatively predicted MIL, and MIL negatively predicted loneliness longitudinally. Taken together, the current research clarified the factor structure of the C-MEMS and provided a valid and reliable measure of MIL that can be applied to advance research in the area of meaning and well-being. It also extended our current understanding on the longitudinal relationships of MIL with well-being and loneliness. Future research may explore MIL as a potential mediator in the relationship between negative emotional symptoms and loneliness.