Is Meaning in Life Changing in Contemporary Croatian Socitey and what are the Possible Implications of this Trend for Medical Practice?

Abstract

Aim: This article explores the changes observed in meaning in life in contemporary Croatian society based on the data collected in a population survey of VAL-DE-END project. Methods: The survey was conducted in 2019 on a three-stage random sample, stratified by regions, counties, and locations within those counties (N = 1203) with a maximum sample error of ±2,8 %. The response rate was 30 %. By including weights, the sample became nationally representative in terms of sex, age, education, and regional representation. The instrument used consisted of 90 items. Results: 87,5 % of respondent think that family and friends give life meaning. More than 67% of respondents find it in contributing to the community. 64,1 % find meaning in life in self-realisation of one’ own possibilities and 56,7 % in living as comfortably as possible. 47,1 % agree with the statement that death can have its meaning only when a person believes in God. Conclusion: If we compare our data to previously done surveys in Croatian population, we can observe process of secularisation and individuation taking place which can have implications for the medical practice.

Keywords

• meaning in life
• death
• healthcare
• croatia