Effects of Perceived Death and Self-esteem on Meaning in Life among University Students

Abstract

Purpose: The objectives of this study were to investigate the level of meaning in life(MIL) among university students as well as identify the effects of death perception, including good death and concerns about dying, and self-esteem on MIL. Methods: A questionnaire survey was developed and carried out using a convenient sampling method (N=301). Data were analyzed by applying descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Duncan test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and stepwise multiple regression. Results: The average score for MIL was 4.70 on a 7-point scale. The factor of purpose of life received highest score among all factors in MIL. MIL was positively correlated with age, good death, and self-esteem. However, concerns about dying were negatively correlated with MIL. MIL showed a strong association with self-esteem(r=.72). Specifically, self-esteem(ß=.608), satisfaction of school life(ß=.190), relationship with parents(ß=.180), good death(ß=.080), school grades(ß=.078), and age(ß=.074) all significantly influenced MIL. These variables accounted for 61.0% of the total variance. Conclusion: The results show that self-esteem is an important factor for MIL among university students. Therefore, self-esteem should be carefully considered to increase their MIL. These research findings can be utilized to support programs such as counseling and education of university students.

Factors Influencing Perception of Good Death among the Community-dwelling Elderly

“…반면, 지금까지 좋은 죽음에 대한 국내 연구는 개념 분석(6)과 대학생과 의료인들을 주로 대상으로 하고 있 었으며 (20)(21)(22) 노인을 대상으로 한 연구는 좋은 죽음을 묻는 한 문항에 대한 질적 연구가 대부분 (1,8,13,23) (6) 3.71±0.48 1 That loved ones be present (7) 3.49±0.66 8 That the person's spiritual needs be met (8) 3.26±0.87 13 That the person be able to accept death (9) 3.71±0.40 1 That the person had a chance to complete important tasks (10) 3.10±0.82 16 That the person had an opportunity to say good-bye (11) 3.29±0.72 12 That the person was able to remain at home (12) 2.98±0.91 18 That the person lived until a key event (13) 2.99±0.89 17 Dying after reconciliation and forgiveness with close people (19) 3.51±0.65 7 Personal control 1.00~4.00 3.43±0.54 That there be mental alertness until the end (15) 3.19±0.79 14 That there be control of bodily functions until death (16) 3.47±0.65 9 That the ability to communicate be present until death (17) 3.41±0.67 10 Not being burden to others when facing death (18) 3…”