The effects of stress and social support on externalizing behaviors among children in military families
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Sumner, J., Boisvert, D., & Andersen, J. (2016). The effects of stress and social support on externalizing behaviors among children in military families. Deviant Behavior, 37(3), 246-262. https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2015.1012403
Abstract Created by REACH:
Stress and the ways that families cope with stress often have a large impact on children's behavior, which may be particularly relevant for military families. This study investigated externalizing behaviors among military children and associations with family stress and social support. Findings indicated that, while military wives with high stress levels reported greater child externalizing behavior, strong social support among military wives served as a protective factor against the effects of stress and was related to lower levels of child externalizing behavior.
Focus:
Children
Mental health
Parents
Programming
Branch of Service:
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Multiple branches
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Subject Affiliation:
Military families
Spouse of service member or veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Authors:
Sumner, Jennifer, Boisvert, Danielle, Andersen, Judith P.
Abstract:
Drawing on social support theory, this study examines the main and interactive effects of parental perceived stress and social support on externalizing behaviors in military youth. Findings reveal that not only do social support and stress affect the conduct of military children, but social support also moderately buffers the effects of parental stress. Given the increasing distance between military and American culture, more generally, this research is one opportunity to make sense of contradictory expectations about the well-being of military youth. In doing so, it provides implications for how a more supportive organization can benefit military families.
Publisher/Sponsoring Organization:
Taylor & Francis
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Author Affiliation:
California State University, JS
Sam Houston State University, DB
University of Toronto Mississauga, JPA
Keywords:
stress, social support, externalization, children of military personnel, subjective well-being
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary