Spontaneous self-affirmation is associated with psychological well-being: Evidence from a US national adult survey sample. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Emanuel, Amber S; Howell, Jennifer L; Taber, Jennifer M; Ferrer, Rebecca A; Klein, William MP; Harris, Peter R
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 23:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: 95
• Page End: 102
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: affect -- physical health -- self-affirmation -- spontaneous self-affirmation -- well-being; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/1359105316643595
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

Emerging evidence suggests that individuals spontaneously self-affirm, by reflecting on values and strengths, in response to daily threats. We examined the prevalence and demographic and well-being correlates of spontaneous self-affirmation in the general population. Participants ( n = 3185) completed the cross-sectional, nationally representative 2013 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS 4, Cycle 3), and answered questions about spontaneous self-affirmation, demographic factors, well-being, and affect. The majority of the population reported spontaneously self-affirming. Black and Hispanic respondents reported engaging in more spontaneous self-affirmation. Engaging in spontaneous self-affirmation was related to greater happiness, hopefulness, optimism, subjective health, and personal health efficacy, and less anger and sadness.