Media Entertainment and Well-Being: Linking Hedonic and Eudaimonic Entertainment to Media-Induced Recovery and Vitality

• In Event: Psychological Processes Underlying Mediated Entertainment

Abstract

This paper addresses the notion of two-factor models of entertainment and their impact on well-being via a hedonic and a eudaimonic route. It is suggested that media-induced recovery and the satisfaction of respective needs can provide an important link in bridging these two entertainment experiences (hedonic and eudaimonic) with well-being after media consumption. Using structural equation modelling, relationships between hedonic/eudaimonic entertainment experiences, involvement, enjoyment, recovery experience and vitality as recovery outcome were tested experimentally (N=120). Results suggest that satisfying recovery needs is achieved via hedonic as well as via eudaimonic experiences by enhancing either relaxation or mastery. Both pathways to recovery are positively related to an increase in vitality and thereby able to foster well-being.

Authors

• Diana Rieger, University of Cologne

• Leonard Reinecke, U of Mainz

• Lena Frischlich, University of Cologne

• Gary Bente, U of Cologne