The bidirectional dynamics of social support, role stress, and anxiety: a longitudinal study of Middle-aged women

Objective: This study examines the bidirectional dynamics of social support, role stress, and anxiety among middle-aged women, highlighting their interactions at both within-person and between-person levels over time. Methods and Measures: Using a nationally representative sample of 2,614 middle-aged women from the Longitudinal Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation, data from four waves (1999-2004) were analyzed. Social support, role stress, and anxiety were assessed using validated scales, and Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Models (RI-CLPM) were employed to explore longitudinal relations. Results: Results revealed negative bidirectional relations between social support and role stress, with high role stress reducing social support over time. Social support generally decreased anxiety but inconsistencies emerged where inadequate support exacerbated anxiety. Role stress and anxiety demonstrated strong positive bidirectional associations, highlighting a reinforcing cycle across waves. Between-person analyses affirmed consistent patterns of negative associations between social support and anxiety and positive associations between role stress and anxiety. Conclusion: The findings underscore the complex interplay of social support, role stress, and anxiety, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions that prioritize the quality and appropriateness of social support to reduce stress and anxiety. These insights inform strategies to enhance the mental health of middle-aged women.