| This qualitative study examines the relationships between adult developmental levels as explicated by the constructive-developmental perspective (Kegan, 1982) and how individuals, according to each constructive-developmental level speak about, and make meaning of their wellbeing across the developmental spectrum. The researcher has used the subject object interview (SOI) because it is a focused but powerful instrument that examines adult developmental complexity within the context of a flexible variety of topics, especially how the participants discuss wellbeing.;In constructive developmental theory, how people make meaning of wellbeing changes as meaning making structures move from concrete to more flexible and expansive developmental states. In the philosophical and scholarly circles wellbeing's constructs are divided into two major forms of thought, eudemonic and hedonic wellbeing. Eudemonic wellbeing focuses on realizing one's true potential. It is a kind of wellbeing that has been expounded in contemplative traditions across the globe, throughout history. Hedonic wellbeing is understood as positive experiences and emotions, an avoidance of negative or painful experiences, and overall life satisfaction. In the empirical observations of the data, participants move from primarily a hedonic experience of wellbeing into an experience of eudemonic wellbeing as they move towards greater complexity developmentally, as evidenced by the themes and details of their qualitative interviews.;Neurology also lends us insights into the workings of adult development, substantiating the claims that our brains and minds change and grow throughout the lifespan. Habitual patterns of mind as well as intentional practices can be used to enhance neural growth in brain areas promoting wellbeing. The central question this study addresses is: how do individuals make meaning of their wellbeing across the constructive developmental spectrum? How do these developmental levels compare against each other? How are they similar both between and within groups?... |
