The Impact of Social and Interpersonal Resources on Adjustment Disorder Symptoms in Older Age

Abstract

This study investigates self-efficacy and motivation regulation as possible mediators of the relationship between social and interpersonal resources (i.e., social network, social support, social acknowledgment as a victim, and disclosure) and adjustment disorder (AJD) symptoms in a sample of 121 adults aged 65–97 years. AJD was conceptualized as a form of stress-response syndrome, core symptoms of which are intrusions, avoidance, and failure to adapt after having experienced a critical event. Motivational variables mediated the relationship between social acknowledgment and AJD symptoms. Contrary to expectations, motivational variables were not found to mediate the link between reluctance to disclose and AJD symptoms. This study casts new light on the psychological processes that enable older adults to adjust to critical life events and to exhibit resilience, which is important for successful aging.