Mixed
Social strain (negative quality of relationships) is a significant predictor of worsening physiological outcomes (inflammation, obesity) in midlife and late adulthood, often more so than social support.
Be mindful of the quality of your social relationships, not just the quantity. High-strain relationships (those causing stress or conflict) are linked to increased inflammation and obesity, particularly in midlife and old age. Prioritizing positive, low-strain interactions may be more beneficial for physiological health than maintaining numerous but stressful connections.
We found evidence for social strain as a more significant predictor of (worsening) physiological outcomes than commonly examined social support measures hypothesized to improve health.
Why this rating
Longitudinal data with objective biomarkers, though effect sizes for strain are described as 'mildly increased' or 'moderate'.
Source
Social relationships and physiological determinants of longevity across the human life span
Yang Claire Yang et al. · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences · 2016
DOI 10.1073/pnas.1511085112
More from this paper
- Higher social integration is associated with lower risk of physiological dysregulation (inflammation, hypertension, obesity) in a dose-response manner across the life span, with effects emerging in adolescence and persisting into old age.Good
- The physiological impact of social relationships varies by life stage, with social integration being most critical in adolescence and late adulthood, while social support/strain is more salient in midlife.Good
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