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The multiple determination of well-being: Independent effects of positive traits, needs, goals, selves, social supports, and cultural contexts

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Abstract

Although most researchers acknowledge that subjective well-being (SWB) is multiply determined, little research and theory simultaneously considers the effects of many types of determinants, located at many different levels of analysis. Guided by a six-level model of “optimal human being” (Sheldon, 2004, ‚Optimal Human Being: An Integrated Multi-level Perspective’ (Erlbaum, Mahwah, N.J.)), we tested the hypothesis that psychological need-satisfaction, a positive Big Five trait profile, good personal goal-progress, high self-esteem, positive social support, and a happiness-conducing cultural membership would each uniquely predict SWB. These hypotheses were confirmed, supporting the hierarchical perspective and irreducibility assumption that under-girded the research. Implications for SWB theory and interventions, and for the task of integrating the many different types of personality constructs that exist, are discussed.

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  1. Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, McAlester Hall, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA

    Kennon M. Sheldon & Tan H. Hoon

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  1. Kennon M. Sheldon
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  2. Tan H. Hoon
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Correspondence to Kennon M. Sheldon.

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Sheldon, K.M., Hoon, T.H. The multiple determination of well-being: Independent effects of positive traits, needs, goals, selves, social supports, and cultural contexts. J Happiness Stud 8, 565–592 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-006-9031-4

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