Man’s Search for Meaning
Test your knowledge with 45 questions across 3 challenge tiers
Master These Concepts
Review these key terms before taking the quiz
Logotherapy
The form of psychotherapy developed by Frankl focusing on finding meaning as the primary human drive
Logotherapy helps patients find meaning in their lives rather than focusing on past traumas or pleasure
Will to Meaning
The fundamental human motivation to find purpose and significance in life
Frankl argues the will to meaning is more fundamental than Freud will to pleasure or Adler will to power
Existential Vacuum
The state of emptiness and meaninglessness that leads to psychological problems
Modern people often suffer from existential vacuum – a sense that life has no purpose
Tragic Optimism
The ability to remain optimistic despite suffering through finding meaning in pain
Even in concentration camps some maintained hope by finding purpose in their suffering
Paradoxical Intention
A therapeutic technique where patients are encouraged to do or wish for what they fear
An insomniac told to try to stay awake may find sleep comes naturally when fear is removed
Self-transcendence
The human capacity to reach beyond oneself toward meanings and other people
Meaning is found not in self-focus but in dedication to causes or love for others
Select a Quiz Tier
Complete each tier to unlock the next and earn your badges.
Fundamentals
TIER 1 β’ READER BADGE
Deep Dive
TIER 2 β’ SCHOLAR BADGE
Expert
TIER 3 β’ MASTER BADGE