At some point in life, there is more than one perspective. It’s the same in theory; there are some opposing or alternative perspectives. This time, we’ll cover hedonic and eudaimonic perspectives in psychology.

If you are interested in or currently studying psychology, at some point you might encounter some terms such as “hedonic” or “eudaimonia.” It is not uncommon for both concepts to be pitted against each other. However, I believe these kinds of concepts might complement each other. Let’s talk about it more below.

Perspectives in Psychology: Hedonic and Eudaimonic — The Dream of Happiness (after 1819) Pierre-Paul Prud’hon, French, 1758-1823

The hedonic approach in psychology

When you hear “hedonic,” does it automatically connect to “hedonism culture,” focusing on pleasure and fun? Somehow, it might be easier to see it that way. Especially in psychology, hedonism is usually present in well-being or happiness research. Hence, it is common to categorize it as that.

The hedonic approach—especially in well-being and happiness research—in psychology refers to the balance of positive and negative affect (Note: for an overview of affect, click here) or events in life, with the specific individual as the sole judge (2). Meaning that other people’s opinions about what is good or bad aren’t necessarily accounted for, especially if the individual doesn’t agree. Additionally, the hedonic approach emphasizes individual judgment, with a common focus on personal freedom, self-preservation, and self-enhancement (3). One example of a hedonic approach in psychology involves subjective well-being (proposed by Diener, 1989).

The eudaimonic approach in psychology

Compared to hedonic, this term might be unfamiliar. Eudaimonic is derived from the Greek term “Eudaimonia,” which means “happiness.” The eudaimonic approach is also commonly used in well-being or happiness research.

The eudaimonic approach highlights how we need a goal consistent with our nature to reach self-fulfillment (1). So, if we reach our potential, we will flourish as individuals. Consistently, the eudaimonic approach also believes in progress, goals, life purpose, and virtue (2). In line with that, the eudaimonic approach also covers personal development and growth aligned with one’s true potential. Other than that, the eudaimonic approach also covers the meaning of life and deeply held values. Some examples of the eudaimonic approach in psychology can be in the form of psychological well-being (proposed by Ryff, 1989), self-determination theory (proposed by Ryan & Deci, 2001), and quality of life (proposed by Lane, 2001).

Conclusion

As briefly covered before, the hedonic approach in psychology refers to individual judgment on whether or not their experiences are pleasant or unpleasant, while the eudaimonic approach focuses on meaning and values that align with individual goals to reach fulfillment. At times, both are debatable. I think, especially in research, it depends on the purpose of the research to decide which concept is more suitable. This is why I believe there is no right or wrong in either of these approaches. It is just a matter of relevance and consistency with the original research idea.