MOTIVATIONAL PATTERNS OF ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT WITHIN A DAY: IMPLICATIONS FOR EXPERIENCED WELL-BEING. (11th November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giasson, H L; Shavit, Y Z; Smith, J
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 2(2018)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 754
• Page End: 754
• Publication Date: 2018-11-11
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy023.2783
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: What do we perceive as the primary reasons why we do the things we do throughout the day? And what implications do these perceived motivational precursors have for our well-being across the day? In a sample of 121 adults ages 50–89, we investigated patterns of activity engagement and activity-related affect as a function of self-reported reasons for engaging in activities. Results indicated that reasons for activities grouped into three distinct motive factors: eudaimonic (to feel useful/productive), hedonic (to relax, to cheer up), and external (someone else wanted me to). Primary motives differed by activity. Individuals were more likely to report engaging in, and drawing emotional benefits from, activities that were done for hedonic reasons compared to eudaimonic or external reasons. Time spent on activities of each motive type was predictive of overall activity-related well-being across the day. Findings illuminate associations between motivational and emotional processes that underlie activity engagement.