Resource loss, resource gain, and depressive symptoms: A 10-year model.

A broadened conceptualization of the stress and coping process that incorporated a more dynamic approach to understanding the role of psychosocial resources was examined, and the association between change in life events and depressive symptoms at follow-up was completely mediated through resource change.

Abstract

This study examined a broadened conceptualization of the stress and coping process that incorporated a more dynamic approach to understanding the role of psychosocial resources in 326 adults studied over a 10-year period. Resource loss across 10 years was significantly associated with an increase in depressive symptoms, whereas resource gain across 10 years was significantly associated with a decrease in depressive symptoms. In addition, change in the preponderance of negative over positive events across 10 years was inversely associated with change in resources during the period. Finally, in an integrative structural equation model, the association between change in life events and depressive symptoms at follow-up was completely mediated through resource change.