The BC-LAMP Portfolio Project: Measuring Living a Life of Meaning and Purpose

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 10
  In Poster Session: Applications of the Rasch Measurement Model

Abstract

Meaning and purpose in life are important components of young adulthood. However, existing measurements of meaning and purpose are not usually sensitive enough for monitoring changes in the construct, or capable of providing an in-depth description of people’s sense of meaning. This study presents a novel scenario-based instrument, the BC-LAMP, designed using Rasch measurement principles (1960/1980) and Guttman Facet Theory (1959) to tackle these problems. Results indicate that the scales fit the expectations of the Rasch rating scale model. This instrument may be useful for higher education institutions when monitoring interventions meant to enhance students’ sense of meaning, and where a meaningful description of the students’ scores is necessary.

Authors

• Larry Houston Ludlow, Boston College

• Ella Anghel, Boston College

• Olivia Szendey, Boston College

• Theresa A. O'Keefe, Boston College

• Burton Howell, Boston College

• Christina Matz-Costa, Boston College

• Henry I. Braun, Boston College