ABSTRACT
Psychological research on the experience of meaning in life has flourished in recent years. The growth of this research area can be seen as part of the broader positive psychology movement, which seeks to understand the psychology of positive experiences and optimal human functioning. This chapter discusses the various factors that are believed to lead to the experience of meaning in life, and how these factors might work to enhance or detract from an individual's feeling that their life is meaningful. One robust predictor of meaning in life is the extent to which one experiences positive emotions, both in daily life and in the moment. The need to belong is arguably the most important psychological need humans aim to satisfy. Humans belong to complex social networks consisting of immediate family members (e.g. parents and children), more distant relations (e.g. grandparents, cousins), romantic partners, friends, workers, and community members.
