Important Subjective Life Experiences and Sense of Authenticity: Retrospective Survey among Japanese University Students

Abstract

This study investigated the relation of important subjective life experiences with sense of authenticity for 238 Japanese university students who responded to the Sense of Authenticity Scale and provided free descriptions regarding their important life experiences. Analyses suggested a group with high scores on the Sense of Authenticity Scale tended to cite extracurricular activities as important life experiences, while those with low scores tended to cite cramming for examinations. Results were discussed in terms of interpersonal relationships.