Transcendence Strengths Related to Appreciation and Protection of All People and Nature Among University Students

Universalism, as defined in Schwartz’s theory of basic human values, reflects a motivational orientation toward understanding, appreciation, and protection of all people and nature. This study examines the psychological foundations of ethical concern and ecological sensitivity among university students, focusing on the role of transcendence strengths. A cross-sectional correlational design was employed and a total of 1240 students from five Spanish universities participated in the study, completing validated instruments designed to assess both transcendence strengths—spirituality, gratitude, hope/optimism, humor, and appreciation of beauty—and universalism. Stepwise regression analysis identified four strengths—gratitude, appreciation of beauty, hope/optimism, and spirituality—as significant predictors of ethical concern for others and nature, explaining 20.1% of the variance. These findings contribute to the growing body of research linking positive psychological traits with ethical engagement and environmental responsibility. They also suggest that fostering transcendence-related strengths in educational settings may enhance students’ capacity for global empathy and moral development. Moreover, rather than functioning in isolation, spirituality interacts dynamically with other transcendence strengths. The study highlights the importance of integrating transcendental dimensions into sustainability discourse. Future research should explore these relationships across cultures and developmental stages to inform policy and educational practice.