Can’t get no (life) satisfaction: narrative engagement, boundary expansion, and well-being

Abstract

This study explored whether boundary expansion is related to increased life satisfaction. In order to examine this possibility, we conducted two studies. In Study 1, we used an experiment to promote either state boundary expansion or state escapism. Although the manipulation was unsuccessful, we did find a positive correlation between expansion and life satisfaction, while escape was not related to life satisfaction. Study 2 examined the relationship between trait boundary expansion and life satisfaction using a large national survey. Results showed that boundary expansion was positively related to life satisfaction and escape was negatively related to life satisfaction.