Abstract

PURPOSE
This study aimed to develop a model that describes factors influencing meaning in life among the middle-aged in Korea, and to verify the appropriateness of the model.
METHODS
The participants were 424 middle-aged residents of Daegu city, Korea. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire from October 4 to 30, 2010 and analyzed using SPSS/WIN 18.0 and LISREL 8.30.
RESULTS
Reported life satisfaction and religion had observed to have a significant direct effect on meaning in life, and coping behavior and self-esteem exhibited significant direct and indirect effect. In addition, depression, economic status, and life stress had a significant indirect effect on meaning in life. Life satisfaction was the most influential factor, and all of these variables explained 53% of the variances in meaning in life among the middle-aged.
CONCLUSION
The findings from this study add to the body of knowledge about the factors that influence meaning in life and need further study. The variables in this study could be used as part of the assessment of the middle-aged.