Literature review

Nihilism in itself is a very complex concept . Through research findings potential factors
that may contribute to nihilistic views in individuals have been traced. Some of these
factors which have been brought to light via research are mentioned and are studied
thoroughly. Trauma and adversity have been linked to increased risk of nihilism. A study
by Gomes and colleagues (2019) found that individuals who had experienced significant
life events, such as abuse or neglect, were more likely to hold nihilistic beliefs
Existential Nihilism can also be a response to existential concerns, such as fear of
death, uncertainty about the future, or a sense of meaninglessness. A study by
Routledge and colleagues (2011) found that individuals who were reminded of their own
mortality were more likely to endorse nihilistic beliefs. Certain personality traits may
make individuals more prone to nihilistic beliefs. For example, high levels of neuroticism
and low levels of extraversion have been linked to increased nihilism (Fridkin & Lerner,
2017). Social and cultural factors may also play a role in the development of nihilistic
beliefs. For example, societal values that emphasize individualism and autonomy may
contribute to a sense of meaninglessness or disconnection from others (Kesebir,
2014).Certain mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, may be
associated with nihilistic beliefs. A study by Rasmussen and colleagues (2011) found
that individuals with depression were more likely to endorse nihilistic beliefs.One factor
that may contribute to the development of existential nihilism is a loss of faith in religion
or traditional belief systems. When individuals no longer find meaning or purpose in
these systems, they may turn to nihilism as a way to make sense of their experiences. A
study by Tracy and colleagues (2016) found that individuals who reported low levels of
religiosity were more likely to endorse nihilistic beliefs.Social isolation can contribute to
feelings of meaninglessness and detachment from others, which may increase the
likelihood of nihilistic beliefs. A study by Van Orden and colleagues (2010) found that
social isolation was associated with increased risk of nihilistic beliefs and suicidal
ideation.Cultural values and societal expectations can also contribute to nihilistic beliefs.
For example, a society that places a high value on material possessions and
individualism may contribute to a sense of meaninglessness or disconnection from
others (Kesebir, 2014).Exposure to nihilistic messages in media, such as movies and
music, may also contribute to the development of nihilistic beliefs. A study by Sisler and
colleagues (2013) found that exposure to nihilistic themes in music was associated with
increased levels of nihilism.The political climate can also influence nihilistic beliefs. A
study by Runciman and colleagues (2018) found that individuals who felt politically
marginalized were more likely to hold nihilistic beliefs.Economic conditions, such as
unemployment and poverty, can also contribute to nihilistic beliefs. A study by Inglehart
and Norris (2016) found that individuals in countries with high levels of economic
insecurity were more likely to hold nihilistic beliefs.While research on the topic is
limited, here are a few studies that shed light on the prevalence of existential nihilism
among men and women: In a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social
Psychology, researchers found that men were more likely than women to endorse
existential nihilism. The study surveyed over 1,500 adults and found that men were
more likely to believe that life is meaningless and that there is no point to anything
(Twenge, Zhang, & Im, 2004). Another study published in the Journal of Clinical
Psychology found that women were more likely than men to experience existential
anxiety, a related concept to nihilism. The study surveyed over 700 adults and found
that women reported higher levels of anxiety related to existential questions about life
and death (Levant, Hall, & Rankin, 2013).
A third study, published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, found no
significant gender differences in the endorsement of existential nihilism. The study
surveyed over 300 adults and found that both men and women reported similar levels of
belief in the meaninglessness of life (Dunkel & Weber, 2010).While these studies
provide some insight into the prevalence of existential nihilism among men and women,
it is important to note that the research on this topic is still limited and further exploration
is needed.

Considering the research gap present in the topic this study's main objective is to find a
significant difference between between the effects of existential nihilism among the
male and female population