A Mixed-Method Study of Materialism and Spirituality: Two Sides of the Happiness Coin?

Abstract

n this mixed-methods study, we examine the role of materialism and spirituality and how they contribute to the happiness of adults in two distinct age groups. In Study 1, 210 adults from two distinct age groups (25-39 years and 40-65 years) completed a series of questionnaires measuring materialism, spirituality and levels of happiness. Analysis of the data provided support for the hypotheses, showing that younger adults, relative to older adults, were more likely to report higher levels of materialism. Older adults, conversely, reported higher levels of spirituality than young adults. Correlational analyses further reveal that there is a significant negative correlation between materialism and happiness, and a significant positive correlation between spirituality and happiness. In Study 2, semi- structured interviews were conducted with 11 adults on their perceptions of materialism, spirituality and happiness. Results from the thematic analysis of these accounts suggest that spirituality fosters self-awareness in individuals, and inspires them to value and help others. Interviewees further state that being materialistic provides subsistence, but breed dissatisfaction. Collectively, findings from this mixed-methods study suggest that while materialistic values do contribute to happiness, such values do not extend individual happiness beyond that necessary for subsistence, and may even be detrimental towards happiness in the long-term. Spirituality, on the other hand, appears a more permanent and constant contributor to sustained happiness, though this realization only appears evident among older adults. We conclude by discussing the theoretical and practical implication of these findings.