Basic Human Values, Gratitude, and Sense of Coherence – Examining Direct and Indirect Predictors of Sense of Coherence

Prior research has consistently pointed to sense of coherence as an important variable playing a protective salutogenic role against the emergence and development of mental health problems. However, while much is known about the positive outcomes associated with sense of coherence, relatively less is known regarding its antecedents. To advance this gap in the literature, we conducted a cross-sectional study involving 229 university students and examined the relationships between Schwartz’s (1992) higher-order basic human values (i.e., self-transcendence, self-enhancement, conservation, and openness to changes), gratitude as an existential attitude, and sense of coherence. In particular, we proposed a mediation theoretical model wherein self-transcendence values and conservation values (but not self-enhancement values nor openness to change values) are positively and indirectly related to sense of coherence though increased gratitude. In line with our theorizing, our results provided support for these predictions. The present research therefore contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the antecedents of sense of coherence – specifically, by highlighting the relevance of basic human values and existential gratitude in predicting individual differences in sense of coherence. Limitations, future research directions, as well as practical implications for health-promotion interventions are discussed.