Life Satisfaction of Undergraduate Students: Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivators

Abstract

In college, choosing a major involves thinking about its extrinsic and intrinsic attributes, for instance its pecuniary benefits versus the degree to which it is internally rewarding. Some students may choose lucrative majors over those which they believe are internally rewarding and vice versa. Previous research has shown that those who pursue intrinsic goals are happier relative to those who pursue extrinsic ones. However, people tend to overestimate the life satisfaction gained by extrinsic needs while underestimating the satisfaction gained by intrinsic needs. It is possible that students choosing a major for reasons conflicting with their personal goals may suffer from lowered life satisfaction. Nonetheless, the temporary circumstances of college students may create a unique dynamic from what has previously been studied. 270 University of Hawai’i at Mānoa college students were surveyed at random. Constructs such as optimism and feelings of community, among others, were found to be indicators of increased life satisfaction. This research may suggest that factors such as the possibility of employment and financial prospects, in addition to other known correlates are key determinants of life satisfaction in college students.