Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 8, 2025

The Social Dimension of Stress: Experimental Manipulations of Social Support and Social Identity in the Trier Social Stress Test
Published on: November 19, 2015
Gender differences in the relationship between social support and strain and mortality among a national sample of
Anna Uhing1, Joni S Williams1,2,3, Emma Garacci1,2
1Center for Advancing Population Science, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
Abstract:
We assessed gender differences in the relationship between mortality and social support, strain, and affectual solidarity received from family, friends and spouses. Data of 6259 adults from the Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS) survey were analyzed. Cox proportional hazards were used to assess relationships between mortality and support, strain, and affectual solidarity and whether the associations varied by gender. Support from family, friends, and spouses/partners and friend affectual solidarity were associated with lower mortality in the total sample. Friend strain was associated with higher mortality in the total sample. Family support and family, friend, and spouse affectual solidarity were associated with lower mortality in women. Friend and spouse strain were associated with a higher mortality for women. Support from friends, family and spouse are beneficial for reducing mortality in men and women. Friend and spouse strain are targets for minimizing mortality risk in women.
Related Concept Videos
Relationship Formation
Social Relationships and Well-Being
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques V
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Longitudinal Research

