Family‐related demands, positive orientation, coping strategies and family satisfaction: A mediation model

Joana M. Suta

doi:10.25071/1929-8471.61

Authors

Joana M. Suta Member of the Association of Psychologists of Lazio, Rome, Italy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25071/1929-8471.61

Keywords:

Social changes, family‐related demands, positive orientation, coping strategies, family satisfaction

Abstract

This study investigates how gradual social change may affect subjective well‐being (SWB) in the family domain, for example how it impacts family satisfaction. Individuals are active agents who use personal resources and coping strategies to protect their SWB from the effects of social change. Specifically, we predict that family demands affect SWB negatively, whereas positive orientation and coping strategies have a protective role. In a sample of 261 young Italian adults, family‐demands associated with social changes were found to have negative effects that could only be reduced from having a positive orientation. Furthermore, confirming the motivational theory of lifespan development, problem‐focused strategies were beneficial for family satisfaction to the extent that they represent an adaptation response to demands associated with social changes.

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