Collegiate purpose orientations and well-being in early and middle adulthood

Two studies evaluated whether different purpose orientations, defined by the content of one's life-goals, would differentially predict personal well-being in the short- and long-term. Four types of purpose orientations (creative, prosocial, financial, and personal recognition) were examined using a sample of 416 (57% male) college undergraduates tested as seniors and again thirteen years after graduation. At senior year, all four purpose orientations were correlated with perceived personal development during college, measured using Higher Education Research Institute surveys. However, at middle adulthood, only the prosocial purpose orientation was predictive of greater generativity, personal growth, and integrity. These studies point to the benefits of having goals focused on helping others rather than helping oneself.