Meaning in Life as a Predictor of Psychological Resilience in Generation Z

Abstract

Generation Z has grown up in a rapidly evolving digital and social environment, facing high psychological pressures such as anxiety, academic stress, and future uncertainty. This study aims to describe the role of meaning in life as a protective factor in enhancing psychological resilience among Generation Z. A literature review methodology was employed, analyzing national and international articles published between 2018 and 2025. Literature searches were conducted through multiple academic databases using keywords “meaning in life,” “psychological resilience,” “life purpose,” and “Generation Z.”Findings indicate that individuals with higher life meaning tend to exhibit better emotion regulation, adaptive coping strategies, and lower levels of psychological distress. Meaning in life also functions as a mediator, strengthening the effects of other psychological factors, such as mindfulness and social support, on resilience. Environmental factors, including digital exposure and academic pressure, moderate this relationship, suggesting that individuals with strong life meaning are better able to interpret negative experiences constructively, maintain hope, and face life challenges adaptively.Therefore, promoting meaning in life may serve as an effective strategy to enhance mental well-being and psychological resilience in Generation Z. These findings highlight the importance of positive psychology interventions that focus on life purpose and the meaningful interpretation of experiences as a means to strengthen adaptive capacities and support mental health in young people.