Difference Between Hedonic and Eudaimonic Well-Being

AspectHedonic Well-BeingEudaimonic Well-Being
DefinitionFocuses on pleasure, comfort, and short-term happinessFocuses on meaning, purpose, and long-term personal growth
GoalMaximize positive emotions and minimize painFulfill true potential and live according to one’s values
Core Idea“Feeling good”“Functioning well”
MeasurementMeasured through subjective well-being (life satisfaction, mood)Measured through psychological well-being (purpose, growth, autonomy)
MotivationDriven by extrinsic goals like success, money, pleasureDriven by intrinsic goals like meaning, relationships, contribution
Philosophical RootsRooted in hedonism (e.g., Epicurus, Bentham)Rooted in Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia (living virtuously)
Example ActivitiesWatching a movie, eating favorite foodVolunteering, mastering a skill, spiritual practice
Duration of SatisfactionOften short-lived and fleetingMore lasting and sustainable satisfaction
Life PerspectiveFocus on present enjoymentFocus on life’s purpose and deeper fulfillment



Example 1Eating your favorite fast food for instant satisfactionPreparing a healthy meal for your family to support their well-being
Example 2Binge-watching a TV series for funReading a challenging book to expand knowledge and grow intellectually

In summary:

  • Hedonic well-being is about pleasure and feeling good,

  • Eudaimonic well-being is about purpose, growth, and living meaningfully.

Psychological Well-Being (PWB) Theory

Developed by Carol Ryff (1989), the theory of Psychological Well-Being moves beyond happiness or pleasure and focuses on optimal psychological functioning and human development. Carol Ryff proposed six key dimensions of psychological well-being that reflect eudaimonic values:

1. Six Dimensions of Psychological Well-Being

Each dimension represents a key aspect of positive functioning:

a) Self-Acceptance

  • Involves having a positive attitude toward oneself.

  • Acknowledging and accepting both good and bad qualities.

  • Example: A person who forgives themselves for past mistakes while still working to improve.

b) Positive Relations with Others

  • Ability to form warm, trusting, and meaningful relationships.

  • Includes empathy, affection, and intimacy.

  • Example: A supportive friendship where mutual respect and care exist.

c) Autonomy

  • Independence in thought and behavior.

  • Ability to resist social pressures and make personal decisions.

  • Example: Choosing a career path based on your passion rather than others’ expectations.

d) Environmental Mastery

  • Ability to manage one’s life and surroundings effectively.

  • Includes shaping or adapting to environments to meet personal needs.

  • Example: Organizing your work, home, and time efficiently to reduce stress.

e) Purpose in Life

  • Having goals, direction, and a sense of meaning.

  • Feeling that life is purposeful and guided.

  • Example: Volunteering in a cause that aligns with your life’s mission.

f) Personal Growth

  • A sense of ongoing development and realizing one’s potential.

  • Openness to new experiences and self-improvement.

  • Example: Learning new skills or exploring different perspectives to evolve mentally and emotionally.

2. Importance of PWB

  • Holistic Well-Being: Focuses on emotional, social, and psychological growth—not just pleasure.

  • Mental Health Indicator: High levels of PWB are linked to lower anxiety, depression, and stress.

  • Lifespan Development: Supports well-being across all stages of life.

3. Application in Therapy and Research

  • Used in clinical psychology to assess recovery and strengths.

  • Foundational in positive psychology interventions, such as gratitude practice, goal setting, or mindfulness.

  • PWB scores are used in cross-cultural well-being comparisons.


Functional Well-Being

Functional Well-Being refers to an individual’s ability to perform daily life tasks effectively while maintaining emotional stability, physical health, and social harmony. It goes beyond just feeling good—it reflects how well a person functions in various life domains like work, relationships, self-care, and decision-making.

 Core Dimensions of Functional Well-Being

a) Physical Functioning

  • Ability to carry out everyday tasks without major fatigue or physical limitations.

  • Includes strength, mobility, sleep quality, and energy levels.

  • Example: Being able to walk, work, or play without pain or restriction.

b) Psychological Stability

  • Emotional regulation and mental resilience in the face of stress or setbacks.

  • Ability to cope without excessive anxiety, depression, or impulsivity.

  • Example: Remaining calm and making rational decisions under pressure.

c) Social Functioning

  • Maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships and social roles.

  • Involves empathy, communication, and emotional support networks.

  • Example: Participating in community, maintaining friendships, or resolving conflicts.

d) Occupational/Role Functioning

  • Effective performance in work, education, or family responsibilities.

  • Includes time management, focus, productivity, and reliability.

  • Example: A student managing studies well while balancing part-time work and social life.

 Importance of Functional Well-Being in Positive Psychology

  • Indicator of Applied Well-Being: It links emotional well-being with real-world success and adaptation.

  • Holistic Perspective: Combines hedonic (feeling good) and eudaimonic (functioning well) aspects.

  • Improves Life Satisfaction: When people function well, they are more likely to feel accomplished, valued, and purposeful.

Personal Development –

  • Definition: Ongoing process of improving self-awareness, skills, strengths, and life purpose.

Key Elements

  • Self-awareness: Knowing your emotions, strengths, and values.

  • Goal setting: SMART goals for direction and motivation.

  • Growth mindset: Belief that abilities can be developed with effort.

Stages

  • Self-discovery → Skill-building → Meaning-making → Flourishing

 Self-Discovery

Understanding your values, strengths, beliefs, and personal identity.

Skill-Building

Developing emotional, cognitive, and practical abilities for growth.

 Meaning-Making

Aligning your actions with deeper purpose and life values.

 Flourishing

Achieving optimal well-being and realizing your full potential.

Benefits

  • Boosts confidence, resilience, emotional intelligence.

  • Improves relationships, decision-making, and satisfaction.

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