Developing the Japanese version of the three dimensional meaning in life scale (J-3DM)

Abstract

Research on meaning in life has advanced through conceptualizing multidimensional meaning, culminating in proposing a three-dimensional model encompassing purpose, coherence, and significance. This study aimed to develop the Japanese version of the Three Dimensional Meaning in Life Scale (J-3DM), initially developed by Martela and Steger (2023). The original scale was translated into Japanese by Japanese researchers, followed by back-translation to ensure equivalence with the original version, in consultation with the original authors. An online survey was conducted with Japanese workers (N=650, Age 20 to 69 years) to examine the reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the 3DM. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the Japanese version maintained the original three-factor structure and demonstrated sound psychometric properties. Furthermore, correlation and multiple regression analyses assessing relationships with existing measures of meaning in life and related constructs confirmed the scale’s reliability and validity. The Japanese version of the 3DM is expected to be a valuable tool for future research on meaning in life within Japanese populations.