Making Sense of Chaos

Personality

Having a Purpose in Life Increases Comfort with Diversity

Maclen Stanley JD, Ed.M. on December 16, 2014

It is estimated that by the year 2042, White Americans will no longer constitute the majority of the U.S. population. A new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests that White Americans who possess a sense of purpose in their lives are more comfortable with an increasingly diverse society.

It is estimated that by the year 2042, White Americans will no longer constitute the majority of the U.S. population. A new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests that White Americans who possess a sense of purpose in their lives are more comfortable with an increasingly diverse society.

Memory

Monsters in the Mirror: No Really, Literal Monsters

Maclen Stanley JD, Ed.M. on August 2, 2014

Various Halloween-related folklore has given us insights into the frightening potential of mirrors.

Various Halloween-related folklore has given us insights into the frightening potential of mirrors.

Purpose in life has consistently been shown to be beneficial to health and longevity. Yet, researchers seldom ask... Why? What is the mechanism through which purpose positively effects our health?

Motivation

The Pernicious Decline in Purpose in Life with Old Age

Maclen Stanley JD, Ed.M. on April 15, 2014

Purpose in life is often thought of as a product of adulthood, reserved only for experienced individuals well-versed in life's travels. Yet, consistent research shows us that the sense of purpose tends to sharply decline with increasing age. Why the decline in purpose? Researchers point to changes in social roles as the main culprit in diminished goals and aspirations.

Purpose in life is often thought of as a product of adulthood, reserved only for experienced individuals well-versed in life's travels. Yet, consistent research shows us that the sense of purpose tends to sharply decline with increasing age. Why the decline in purpose? Researchers point to changes in social roles as the main culprit in diminished goals and aspirations.

Motivation

Yes We Can! Yes We Can! But…What Are We Doing?

Maclen Stanley JD, Ed.M. on April 7, 2014

Consistent research shows that the sense of purpose in life tends to peak during the college years. If so, why do college students appear so stressed and uncertain about future goals and directions?

Consistent research shows that the sense of purpose in life tends to peak during the college years. If so, why do college students appear so stressed and uncertain about future goals and directions?