Evaluation of a meaning in life intervention applied to work: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Meaning-based interventions have demonstrated promising outcomes in enhancing meaning in life. However, understanding their efficacy in diverse contexts requires further research. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a meaning-based intervention in a military sample and the impact of incorporating an additional emotion regulation module into the intervention. We conducted a randomized three-group parallel trial with active-duty military personnel: a waitlist control group (n = 21), a meaning-based intervention group (n = 42), and a meaning-based intervention with emotion regulation group (n = 43). Both intervention groups received six 2-hour sessions and a follow-up session 4 months later. Meaning in life and work-related variables, as well as well-being, depression, emotion regulation, and work-related factors, were assessed using a mixed-factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that only the meaning-based intervention with an emotion regulation component significantly increased the presence of meaning in life. We also observed a trend toward improved well-being scores over time that did not emerge for the other intervention. This study provides initial support for the efficacy of meaning-based interventions within the military context when supplemented with emotion regulation skills.