Self-Transcendence: Conceptualization and Measurement

Self-transcendence, a reduced reliance on external self-definition and increased interiority, spirituality, and generational connectedness, is proposed as key to wisdom and later-life adaptation. A study of 351 adults using the Adult Self-Transcendence Inventory and NEO-FFI found two factors: self-transcendence and alienation. Self-transcendence showed modest but significant relationships with lower neuroticism and higher openness, extraversion, and agreeableness, indicating it is not just a mix of positive traits. Regression analysis confirmed self-transcendence was negatively linked to neuroticism and positively linked to meditation practice, supporting the construct's distinctiveness.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Self-transcendence has been hypothesized to be a critical component of wisdom (Curnow, 1999) and adaptation in later life (Tornstam, 1994). It reflects a decreasing reliance on externals for definition of the self, increasing interiority and spirituality, and a greater sense of connectedness with past and future generations. The Adult Self-Transcendence Inventory was administered to 351 individuals along with the NEO-FFI Personality Scale (McCrae & Costa, 1989). A principal axis factor analysis identified two factors: self-transcendence and alienation. The relationships between self-transcendence and neuroticism, openness to experience, extraversion, and agreeableness were significant, although modest, suggesting that self-transcendence cannot be accounted for in terms of positive personality traits alone. As expected, a multiple regression analysis indicated that self-transcendence was negatively related to neuroticism and positively related to meditation practice. The present study appears to lend support to the construct of self-transcendence.