Perceived stress across population segments characterized by differing stressor profiles-A latent class analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Stress is a significant public health concern.
• Understanding population segments experiencing different stressors is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify distinct population segments based on stressor profiles.
• To examine the socio-demographic composition of these segments.
• To investigate the association between stressor profiles and perceived stress levels.

Main Methods:

• Latent class analysis of nine self-reported stressors in a representative sample of Danish adults (N = 32,417).
• Perceived stress measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).

Main Results:

• Seven distinct segments (classes) were identified, with the majority (64%) experiencing low stressor burden.
• Six segments exhibited varying combinations of financial, work, housing, health, and social stressors.
• Higher perceived stress levels (PSS scores) were significantly associated with specific stressor profiles, particularly complex burdens.
• Demographic factors like female gender, older age, and lower educational attainment were linked to increased likelihood of belonging to higher-stress segments.

Conclusions:

• Latent class analysis successfully identified seven population segments with diverse stressor combinations.
• Six segments demonstrated elevated perceived stress, underscoring the heterogeneity of stress experiences.
• Findings support targeted mental health strategies for specific population segments facing challenging life situations.