For more than 30 years, dozens of psychologists have pursued a single idea. A simple idea, too: that focusing on intrinsic goals (personal growth, people we love, community service, or health) promotes well-being, while focusing on extrinsic goals (wealth, fame, or beauty) ends up eroding it.
Now, after reviewing 105 studies and a sample of 70,110 participants, Australian researchers seem to have confirmed it.
A huge meta-analysis. A meta-analysis is “a systematic method for synthesizing results from different empirical studies on the effect of an independent variable, whether intervention or treatment, on a precise final outcome.” Roughly speaking, the results of many different studies are taken, ‘transferred’ on the same scale and analyzed as if they were the same study. This way we can see if the effects are real or not.
Following this methodology, the researchers found that the correlation between pursuing intrinsic goals and well-being was 0.24. That is, positive. On the other hand, the relationship with extrinsic objectives was negative (-0.22).
What does this all mean? It is important to note that these studies are not causal. Or what is the same: we know that there is a relationship, but we do not know what happens before. That is to say, it might be that people who achieve greater well-being end up focusing on intrinsic objectives and leaving extrinsic ones aside.
A moral compass. However, the results are interesting because, as the authors point out, they give us a horizon, a reference. To individuals because it gives them a framework on their path to their own happiness. It may not be a magic recipe, but it is a very useful reference in these times when losing your way is relatively easy.
And, beyond individuals, it also helps institutions better understand how they can help the individuals they serve live fuller, more meaningful lives.
In essence, it gives us tools to imagine (and give legitimacy to) other types of lives.
Against the American dream. In ‘Days of Destruction, Days of Revolt’, Pulitzer Prize winner Chris Hedges said that the American dream was “the idea that life will get better […] if we obey the rules and work hard.” It is precisely that idea that, according to the researchers, is put in check with this work.
I don’t know if it’s enough, to be honest. But what is clear is that it invites us to reconsider the way in which society values people’s expectations.
Image | Dyana Wing So
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