Sources of Personal Meaning in Life for a Sample of Younger and Older Urban Australian Women

Abstract

This descriptive study looks at what 372 urban Australian women, aged 18–91, consider to be die most and least important sources of meaning in their lives. Using an instrument developed in Canada to study the sources of personal meaning in individuals (Sources of Meaning Profile-SOMP), the major conclusions from the Australian study were fundamentally consistent with continuity theory. While some age related differences in meaning orientations were found, there was nevertheless considerable consistency in the ratings given to the sources of meaning across the age cohorts, with only 7 of the 16 sources of meaning significantly differing on the basis of age. Participation in personal relationships and experiencing personal growth were the most important sources for the entire sample, while being acknowledged for personal achievements, leaving a legacy for the next generation, and participation in religious activities were the least important sources of meaning. When items were grouped according to hierarchical level of meaning, the greatest-and only significant—differentiation between the age groups was found in level 2–sources of meaning relating to realization of personal potential. Theoretical, policy and educational implications are briefly discussed.

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