Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop and test a latent-variable model to assess the relationship between self-expression and depressive symptoms in late life. Data from a nationwide survey of older adults (n = 1,013) provided empirical support for the following theoretical linkages embedded in this conceptual framework: (1) Higher levels of educational attainment are associated with greater self-expression, (2) older people who find avenues for self-expression are more likely to develop senses of meaning in life, (3) older adults who find senses of meaning in life are more likely to feel grateful, and (4) elders who feel grateful are less likely to experience symptoms of depression.
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