Dimensional specificity in the prediction of subjective well-being: Personal projects in pursuit of the PHD

Research on personal goals in relation to subjective well-being (SWB) typic ally involves appraisals of these goals on a number of appraisal dimensions . In this study, we examined how dimensional specificity affects prediction s of SWB. Two studies were conducted. In the first, 19 doctoral candidates were interviewed with respect to their personal projects. Using a grounded- theory approach to the interview transcripts, 11 context-specific dimension s were identified: time pressure, time conflict, procrastination, anxiety, guilt, financial stress, uncertainty, social support, passion, commitment a nd positive effects on mood. These dimensions were then used in a second st udy of 81 doctoral students who completed a questionnaire package including : Personal Projects Analysis (PPA), the NEO Personality Inventory, and SWB measures. Regression analyses revealed that the context-specific PPA dimens ions identified in Study 1 accounted for unique variance in perceptions of life satisfaction and provided a more detailed perspective on doctoral stud ents' stress and coping resources. The results of the two studies are discu ssed in terms of the Personal Action Constructs now being used in studies o f the conative aspects of well-being.