Developmental relations between sense of community and well‐being among early adolescents: A latent change score modelling study

Abstract

Previous research on sense of community (SOC) has predominantly assumed that this construct plays a role in predicting well‐being (WB). However, it is only recently that a bidirectional relationship between SOC and WB has been hypothesised and tested. Moreover, no study investigated the longitudinal relationships between psychological WB and SOC among early adolescents. The present research followed a sample of middle school students from six‐grade through nine‐grade to investigate the reciprocal relationships between SOC and WB. Participants were 576 Italian students. In the present article, we utilised latent change score modelling based on longitudinal data collected in three waves across 3 years. Using bivariate dual change score modelling, dynamic reciprocal relationships were observed between SOC and WB. The revealed bidirectional relationship between SOC and WB contribute to the extant literature by illuminating more nuanced interplays between these constructs among early adolescents.

In what ways do emerging adults with substance use problems experience their communities as influencing their personal recovery processes?

“…Over the past two decades, several studies have considered the importance of communities and PSOC for health and well‐being within specific age groups. These have focused primarily on adolescents and older adults (Bahl et al, 2021b; Chiessi et al, 2010; Li et al, 2014; Prati et al, 2021). The few PSOC studies of young people that have included those with substance use problems have primarily assessed students in the United States (Gordon et al, 2020; Henry & Slater, 2007; Mayberry et al, 2009) or young minority groups (e.g., Hispanic students and students of colour) (Lardier Jr et al, 2017, 2019a; 2019b).…”