title: Self-transcendence and depression in middle-age adults.
abstract: Self-transcendence has been found to be an important correlate of mental health in older adults and adults facing the end of life. This study extends current theory by examining the relationship of transcendence and other transcendence variables to depression in middle-age adults (N = 133). Reed's Self-Transcendence Scale, the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, and measures of parenting, acceptance and spirituality were administered. Findings indicating significant inverse correlations between self-transcendence and depression, as well as between other measures of transcendence and depression support Reed's (1991b) theory. Multiple regression analysis indicated that acceptance may be another significant correlate of depression. Significant gender differences and age-related patterns of increased levels of self-transcendence were found. Study results illuminate the need to continue research into developmentally based transcendence variables related to various experiences of health and well-being across the life span.
authors.affiliation: College of Nursing, University of Arizona, USA.
authors.forename: C R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Ellermann
authors.forename: P G
authors.initials: PG
authors.lastname: Reed
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D003863:Depression / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006803:Human Development; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012069:Religion and Psychology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012649:Self Concept; D012737:Sex Factors; D015206:Southwestern United States; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires