The Research Desk
Flourishing involves thriving emotionally, cognitively, socially, and existentially throughout life. Each life stage presents unique challenges and opportunities.
Understanding psychological flourishing across the lifespan: an integrative review of theory and evidence.
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Meiping, W., Akhter, S., Tan, M.
In plain language
This integrative review explores the concept of psychological flourishing, which involves thriving across emotional, cognitive, social, and existential dimensions, throughout the human lifespan. The authors synthesize various theoretical models and empirical evidence to understand how flourishing develops from childhood to late adulthood. They examine key frameworks like Seligman's PERMA model and Self-Determination Theory to highlight the different challenges and opportunities for flourishing at each life stage.
The review integrates findings from both longitudinal and cross-sectional studies, alongside intervention research, to pinpoint universal and age-specific factors that contribute to flourishing. It also discusses the implications of these findings for fields such as clinical practice, education, and public health, suggesting ways to foster flourishing at different life stages.
Key findings
- Flourishing is a multidimensional construct that includes emotional, cognitive, social, and existential well-being.
- Different life stages present unique challenges and opportunities for flourishing.
- Theoretical models like PERMA and Self-Determination Theory provide frameworks for understanding flourishing.
- Both universal and stage-specific factors influence flourishing across the lifespan.
- Intervention research highlights ways to cultivate flourishing at various developmental stages.
Why it matters
This research is crucial for understanding how flourishing can be nurtured throughout life, offering insights into the ways individuals can thrive at different ages. It underscores the importance of considering life stage-specific needs and interventions to promote overall well-being.
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Readers can apply this knowledge by recognizing the importance of addressing specific needs and opportunities for flourishing at different life stages. For example, fostering supportive social relationships and pursuing meaningful goals can enhance flourishing regardless of age. Being aware of these factors can help individuals and communities create environments that support thriving across the lifespan.