Scales of meaning and purpose in life among students: descriptive analysis of the applications of the PIL and MLQ
Javier Bermejo Fernández Nieto – Universidad Complutense de Madrid - ORCID: 0000-0003-3921-6346
Abstract
The aim of this article is to analyse, from a descriptive and systematic perspective, the empirical application of the Purpose in Life Test (PIL) and the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ) among students. Methodologically, a descriptive-bibliometric systematic review was conducted using the SCOPUS database, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines and restricting the search exclusively to scientific articles. Analysis of the 796 selected records, out of an initial total of 816, highlights the dominance of the PIL and the MLQ over other instruments, revealing a sustained increase in scientific output over the last two decades and growing application in educational and healthcare contexts, focused primarily on university students. In conclusion, this study analytically systematises the existing literature, providing a solid descriptive basis to guide future research on the assessment of the construct ‘sense of life’ in the academic sphere.
Keyword: Meaning of life
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