Publication Type

Journal Article

Version

acceptedVersion

Publication Date

10-2024

Abstract

Existing literature has explored the impact of social support (SS) on life satisfaction (LS). However, the reciprocal relationship—that is, the influence of LS on SS—remains understudied, despite extant theoretical support. In addressing this gap, the present study employed bivariate latent growth modeling to examine bidirectional associations between SS and LS trajectories among 8,449 middle-aged and older adults in Singapore, over seven waves spanning almost 6 years. Results provided evidence supporting the notion of bidirectional associations. Specifically, baseline SS positively predicted subsequent changes in LS, and baseline LS positively predicted subsequent changes in SS. Findings underscore the potential for interventions and policies aimed at enhancing well-being among older individuals to capitalize on this bidirectional relationship. By targeting either LS or SS, interventions could potentially trigger positive feedback loops, amplifying their collective impact on overall well-being.

Keywords

bivariate latent growth, longitudinal analysis, well-being, feedback loop

Discipline

Social Psychology

Research Areas

Psychology

Publication

Social Psychological and Personality Science

First Page

1

Last Page

11

ISSN

1948-5506

Identifier

10.1177/19485506241283584

Publisher

SAGE Publications (UK and US)

Copyright Owner and License

Authors

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1177/19485506241283584

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