The more the better? The relationship between mismatches in social support and subjective well-being in daily life

J Health Psychol. 2011 May;16(4):621-31. doi: 10.1177/1359105310385366. Epub 2011 Mar 17.

Abstract

In this study, we examined the relationship between discrepancies between desired and received support and subjective well-being, as indicated by negative affect and perceived stress, in daily life. Participants were 30 undergraduates who were equipped with hand-held computers for seven days. Results showed that underprovision of support predicted lower well-being, whereas overprovision was related to higher well-being, suggesting a linear relationship. Emotional support proved to be more influential than practical and informational support. In contrast to previous research, perceived social support turned out to be unrelated to well-being in daily life.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Affect
  • Emotions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mental Health*
  • Social Support*
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology
  • Young Adult