Adaptive and maladaptive self-relating as predictors of meaning in life: Differential pathways to presence and search for meaning

The aim of this study was to examine the role of different dimensions of self-relating in explaining meaning in life. Specifically, this study examined whether the dimensions of self-criticism and Reassured Self can differentially predict two dimensions of meaning in life, including the presence of meaning and the search for meaning. Data were collected from 3212 adult participants through standardized questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used to analyse the data. The findings showed that Reassured Self showed the strongest positive association of the presence of meaning in life, while self-criticism showed the strongest association with the search for meaning. Also, self-criticism was associated with a decrease in the presence of meaning and an increase in the search for meaning, while Reassured Self was associated with an increase in the presence of meaning. These findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between different dimensions of self-relationship in understanding the mechanisms underlying existential well-being. From a practical perspective, the results of this study could be useful for designing psychological interventions, particularly within the framework of compassion-focused therapy, such that reducing self-criticism and enhancing self-affirmation could help promote meaning in life and psychological well-being.