Graduate Program
Clinical Psychology
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Semester of Degree Completion
2012
Thesis Director
Ronan Bernas
Thesis Committee Member
Ronald Gruber
Thesis Committee Member
Unknown
Abstract
The present study examined the relationship between a dialectical self and three different conceptions of well-being: hedonic, eudaimonic, and social well-being. Dialectical self refers to the ability to recognize contradictions and changes in the self. The study was built upon previous research by Spencer-Rodgers and her colleagues (2004) that found a negative relationship between being dialectical and hedonic well-being (specifically selfesteem and life satisfaction). Although this previous study indicated that the more one perceives oneself as tolerant of contradiction and change, the more one would tend to experience life dissatisfaction and negative feelings (i.e., hedonic well-being), the current study predicted that individuals with a more dialectical sense of self would experience the contrary with other types of well-being, particularly eudaimonic and social well-being. It was expected that a more dialectical self would be associated with lower levels of hedonic well-being, but with higher levels of eudaimonic and social well-being. One hundred and seven college students responded to scales measuring dialectical self as well as hedonic, eudaimonic, and social well-being. Contrary to expectations, higher levels of dialecticism were associated with lower levels of eudaimonic well-being. In tum, lower levels of eudaimonic well-being were accompanied by lower levels ofhedonic and social well-being.
Recommended Citation
Hisanaga, Ayaka, "The relationship between dialectical self and hedonic, eudaimonic, and social well-being" (2012). Masters Theses. 988.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/988
