Factors Associated with Meaning in Life Among Hispanic Adults in the Post-Pandemic Period: A Cross-Sectional Study Across 16 Countries

This cross-sectional study examined post-pandemic levels of meaning in life and its associated factors among Hispanic adults (N = 10,142) aged 18 to 78 years old, residing across 16 countries. Analysis revealed that 50.2% of the participants experienced low levels of meaning in life. Controlling for fixed country effects, mental health, occupational purpose, gratitude, friendships, and engagement in meaningful activities emerged as variables associated with higher meaning in life. Conversely, low perceived workplace success, absence of gratitude, and heavy social media consumption were linked to lower meaning. Key sociodemographic markers, including income, education, and gender, showed no significant associations with meaning in life. This non-significance suggests that meaning in life functions as an accessible resource available to individuals regardless of their sociodemographic factors. These findings indicate that post-pandemic recovery across Hispanic populations must extend beyond economic indicators to prioritize accessible community-based mental health integration and social infrastructure, offering an evidencebased starting point for designing culturally grounded interventions to promote meaning in life.