Positive and negative social ties among older adults: Measurement models and the prediction of psychological distress and well‐being

Abstract

The factor structure of positive and negative social ties was studied among 246 older adults who were either recently physically disabled, recently conjugally bereaved, or matched controls. Covariance structure analyses were carried out on a network measure to determine whether positive and negative social ties represent independent domains of social experience, and to assess the degree to which their structure is invariant across groups undergoing major loss transitions. Positive and negative social ties were found to be independent and there was substantial similarity in their factor structure across the three groups. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that, whereas positive social ties were related to psychological well-being, negative social ties were predictive of both psychological well-being and distress. These results demonstrate the importance of assessing both positive and negative ties in explaining the psychological adjustment of older adults.

Daily negative interactions and mood among patients and partners dealing with multiple sclerosis (MS): The moderating effects of emotional support

“…Finch, Okun, Barrera, Zautra, & Reich, 1989). Empirical support for both models has been found (Finch et al, 1989;Finch, Okun, Pool, & Ruehlman, 1999;IngersollDayton et al, 1997;Manne et al, 1997;Rook, 2001). If a cross-over effect is engendered by the potency of negative responses, as some researchers suggest, one might expect that this model applies especially to individuals who are vulnerable to negative responses, that is, those who are dealing with chronic illness and their intimate partners.…”

“…However, other researchers argue that the effects of negative responses are so potent that they affect both positive and negative well-being, which is termed a cross-over effect (e.g. Finch, Okun, Barrera, Zautra, & Reich, 1989). Empirical support for both models has been found (Finch et al, 1989;Finch, Okun, Pool, & Ruehlman, 1999;IngersollDayton et al, 1997;Manne et al, 1997;Rook, 2001).…”

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Quality of life in tertiary healthcare services: lessons from the Saudi Arabia accreditation system

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