A Validation Study of the Existential Anxiety Scale

Logotherapy is a meaning-centered p.ychotherapy which focuses on both the meaning of iiuman existence and the personal search for meaning. If the w_11 to search for meaning is frustrated, "existential frustration" may result. This study validates the Existential Anxiety Scale (EAS) developed by Good and Good (1974). Basic principles of logotherapy are discussed and related research is reviewed. The materials used in this study include the EAS, the Purpose in Life (PIL) test, the Seeking of Noetic Goals (SONG) test, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and a demographic data sheet. The researcher chose multiple regression to test the significance of the combination of PIL, SONG, depression, drug use, and other demographic variable on high existential anxiety. It was hypothc ized that high existential anxiety correlates with low PIL scores, high SONG scores, high depression, drug use, high sexual activity, fewer close friends, and lack of involvement in spiritual or religious activities. Results substantiated the hypothesis that high existential anxiety is significantly related to low PIL scores, high SONG scores, and high depression. No other hypotheses were substantiated. Contains 15 references. (RJM) ******************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************************************** A Validation Study of the Existential