The role of self-connection in predicting well-being: A two-wave longitudinal study

In response to declining well-being, positive psychology has shifted focus from treating mental illness to promoting well-being, exploring factors like strengths and virtues that contribute to a fulfilling life. In recent years, the construct of self-connection, has gained attention for its potential impact on well-being. Despite its significance, most existing studies are correlational and predominantly conducted within Western cultures. This study aims to address these gaps by exploring the relationship between self-connection and well-being in a non-Western context. Utilizing a longitudinal design, we collected data from a sample of 265 Chinese university students at two time points. Contrary to previous assumptions, our findings revealed that self-connection at T1 did not predict well-being at T2. Instead, well-being at T1 was found to predict self-connection at T2 across three well-being indicators: subjective well-being (SWB), meaning in life (MIL), and peace of mind (POM). These results suggest that while self-connection is important, it may be well-being that fosters the development of self-connection, offering new insights into the dynamic interplay between these constructs. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the need to consider cultural contexts and the directionality of the relationship between self-connection and well-being.