Dynamics of Family Economic Hardship and the Progression of Health Problems of Husbands and Wives During the Middle Years: A Perspective From Rural Mid-West

Year: 2010

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of theoretically important dimensions of stability and change in economic hardship during early middle years on decade-long health problems of husbands and wives. METHOD: The study used prospective data collected from 360 middle-aged husbands and wives during a 12-year period. The variables included self-reported economic hardship (22 items), mental and physical health, and physical impairment. RESULTS: The results supported the hypothesis that the dynamics of family economic hardship (in terms of stability and change) during the early middle years contribute to subsequent onset of health problems of middle-aged husbands and wives. These health problems in turn progress as an interrelated process through intrahealth-domain continuities, cross-health domain proliferations, and dyadic associations as they pass through midlife. DISCUSSION: A better understanding of these processes may aid in the formation and effective implementation of health promotion programs for middle-aged husbands and wives.

Source: Journal of Aging and Health

DOI: 10.1177/0898264310377353

Authors: K.A.S. Wickrama, Kyung Hwa Kwag, Federick O. Lorenz, Rand D. Conger, Florensia F. Surjadi

Institutions: Iowa State University, University of California, Davis

Language: English

Topic: Health disparities and outcomes

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

OpenAlex ID: W1973272391