International Journal of Existential Positive Psychology

Meaning in Life among Latino University Students

Trace Pirtle, Ed.D.

Texas A&M International University

Maximino Plata, Ph.D.

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Abstract

The Purpose In Life Test (PIL) was used to obtain perceptions of meaning and purpose in life among 156 Latino first-semester undergraduate students at a Hispanic Serving Institution located on the border of Texas and Mexico. Results revealed an unexpected significant higher perception of meaning in life among Latinos than those of predominantly White undergraduates. Significant differences were also found on employment status and religious/spiritual disposition variables. Non-significant differences were found on college major, family’s history of college attendance, and college residence status.

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