Validation of the meaning in life questionnaire in a South African context

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ) in a South African sample. A multi-cultural group of undergraduate students (N = 326) completed the MLQ and other measures. Descriptive statistics, reliability, inter-item correlations, construct and convergent validity are reported. Internal consistency indices indicate satisfactory reliability for both the Presence of Meaning (MLQ-P) and Search for Meaning (MLQ-S) sub-scales. The theoretically intended two factor structure was supported by the data. The MLQ-P was associated with mental health, satisfaction with life, sense of coherence and spiritual well-being; whereas the MLQ-S was associated with depression. The findings of this study support the applicability of the MLQ for further research on meaning and well-being in a South African context with similar groups.