Work as Meaning Inventory: A network analysis in Italian workers and students

The present study examined the Italian version of the Work as Meaning Inventory and Work as Meaning Inventory for University students through a network perspective. Network analysis was applied to 505 Italian workers assessed via the Work as Meaning Inventory and 214 Italian university students assessed via the Work as Meaning Inventory for University students. The comparison between the factor and network model of both Work as Meaning Inventory and Work as Meaning Inventory for University students showed a higher fit for network models. Network analysis revealed that both Work as Meaning Inventory and Work as Meaning Inventory for University students items enclosed in the Positive meaning dimension had the highest centrality; the most connected item with the overall network was the item 2 (work/study that contributes to personal growth) able to link together the three dimensions (positive meaning, meaning-making through work, greater good motivations). Findings suggested that a network approach can provide a promising realm to expand the understanding of meaning at work and meaning at study.