Can’t get no (life) satisfaction: narrative engagement, boundary expansion, and well-being

ABSTRACT

This study explored whether boundary expansion is related to increased life satisfaction. In order to examine this possibility, we conducted two studies. In Study 1, we used an experiment to promote either state boundary expansion or state escapism. Although the manipulation was unsuccessful, we did find a positive correlation between expansion and life satisfaction, while escape was not related to life satisfaction. Study 2 examined the relationship between trait boundary expansion and life satisfaction using a large national survey. Results showed that boundary expansion was positively related to life satisfaction and escape was negatively related to life satisfaction.

KEYWORDS:

• TEBOTS
• escapism
• life satisfaction
• positive media psychology
• narrative engagement

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Bryan McLaughlin

Bryan McLaughlin (PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison) is an assistant professor in the Department of Advertising at Texas Tech University. Most broadly, his research interests include political communication, media effects, and social identity. More specifically, Bryan examines how political narratives are processed and experienced by citizens, and the consequences of these experiences on attitudes and political conflict.

Jeanette Moya

Jeanette Moya (MA, Texas Tech University) is an adjunct instructor of eLearning & Academic Partnerships at Texas Tech University. She studies media effects as she has an interest in how individuals may be influenced by television shows and films. More particularly, she has focused on the more positive influence one may have when watching their favorite TV shows or films.

Nathian Rodriguez

Nathian Shae Rodriguez (PhD, Texas Tech University) is an Associate Professor of Digital Media and the Associate Director of the School of Journalism & Media Studies at San Diego State University. Dr. Rodriguez specializes in critical-cultural and digital media studies, critical communication pedagogy, and pop culture pedagogy. His research focuses on minority representation in media, specifically LGBTQ and Latinx portrayals and intersectional identity negotiation, as well as pop culture, identity, radio broadcasting, and issues of masculinity/mascing.

Jeffrey Hunter

Jeff Hunter (M.A., Texas Tech University) is a doctoral student in Media & Communication at Texas Tech University. His research interests include political campaigns and rural politics.

Grace White

Grace White (BA, Texas Tech University) is an assistant strategist for Horizon Media.