Abstract
M.A. (Counselling Psychology)
Positive psychology (PP) is interested in individuals’ optimal human functioning and focuses
on positive experiences and positive characters and virtues. A developmental phase that
seems to particularly benefit from positive functioning is emerging adulthood, which refers to
individuals between the ages of 18 and 25 years. When these individuals enter the university
context as students, additional factors may impact on their development. Moreover, although
emerging adults tend to seem hopeful about the future, have the potential to establish close
relationships and are capable of positive change, yet research has mainly focussed on
negative aspects concerning this life phase. This study therefore aims to focus on aspects that
could be indicators of positive functioning during this life phase, namely post traumatic
growth (PTG), meaning in life (MIL) and hope. This study also examines the relationship
between these constructs, as well as MIL and hope as predictors of PTG.
In order to achieve these aims, a quantitative, cross-sectional and correlational research
design was implemented. The sample consisted of emerging adults (n= 166), who completed
an online survey, which consisted of a Biographical Questionnaire, the Post Traumatic
Growth Inventory (PTGI), the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MILQ) and the Adult Hope
Scale (AHS). The MILQ was used to determine the Presence of Meaning (MIL-P) and Search
for Meaning (MIL-S). The participants in this study indicated high levels of PTG, MIL and
hope. Relationships between PTG and MIL-P, PTG and hope and MIL- P and hope were
positive and statistically significant. The prediction values of both MIL-P and hope towards
PTG were statistically significant. Further research is needed to better understand the factors
that influence the relationships between PTG, MIL and hope. Recommendations within this
context are discussed.