Social Support and Strain by Relationship Type on Mental Health across the Life Course

• In Event: 343 - Section on Medical Sociology Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 06. Mental and Behavioral Health

Abstract

Objectives: This study integrates stress process theory into a life course framework to examine how support and strain from particular relationship types (spouse/partner, children, mother, and friends/relatives) influence mental health trajectories among different age groups net of support and strain from other relationship types. Methods: Latent growth curve models were used on nationally representative panel data from the Americans’ Changing Lives survey (1986, 1989, 1994, and 2001/2002). Results: Net of support and strain from other relationships, support from a spouse was related to better mental health among every age group. Support and strain from friendships were significantly related to mental health among younger and older adults, whereas only support from family relationships was beneficial for mental health among adults in midlife. Discussion: Findings demonstrate the importance of support and strain from multiple types of network members for the mental health of adults across the life course.

Author

• Patricia A. Thomas, Purdue University