Development of an Instrument to Measure Meaning of Life(MOL) for Higher Grade Primary School Children

Kang, Kyung Ah; Kim, Shin Jeong; Song, Mi Kyung; Sim, Songyong; Kim, Sung Hee

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to develop a MOL instrument for school-age children in grades 4 through 6. METHOD: The research design was a methodological study. A four-phase design involved. 1) Interview data generated from professors, nurses, and elementary school students (n=8). 2) Content validation by expert panel (n=14) 3) Initial items corrected by elementary school students (n=20) 4) Instrument validation by survey (n=574). Finally, 24 items were chosen as a meaning of life scale for late school-age children.
RESULTS
The Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 24 items was .893 indicated a high internal consistency of the instrument, 2) Through factor analysis, 5 factors were extracted. These factors were labeled as 'relational experience', 'positive attitude', 'satisfaction/ hope', 'pursuit of goal', and experience of family love. These factors explained 52.311% of the total variance.
CONCLUSION
The MOL scale for late school-age children can be used in nursing programs to improve the meaning of life. Studies on difference in meaning of life for late school-age children are needed for reverification.