COVID-19 pandemic stresses and relationships in college students

Abstract

Objective: The goal of this study was to understand how intergenerational intimacy and individuation associate with COVID-19 pandemic-related stresses and changes to relationship qualities, and consequentially, with substance use indicators, happiness, and life satisfaction. Background: Intergenerational family systems theory suggests that dysfunctional relationship patterns in one's family of origin contribute to greater stress, and consequentially, to poorer health outcomes. We examined how these patterns emerge for young adults during a pandemic. Method: A sample (N = 501) of young adults at a large university in Texas completed an online questionnaire about health and happiness. Results: More intergenerational intimacy was associated with more positive COVID-19 pandemic-related changes in relationship quality with family and friends, and with more happiness and life satisfaction. More intergenerational individuation was associated with less COVID-19 pandemic-related stress, fewer coping motives for alcohol use, and with more happiness and life satisfaction. Less COVID-19 pandemic-related stress and more positive COVID-19 pandemic-related changes in relationship qualities with family and friends were associated with more positive outcomes. Conclusion: More positive intergenerational relationships are associated with more positive outcomes in regards to COVID-19 pandemic-related stress and relationship changes. Implications: Promoting positive intergenerational relational qualities between young adults and their parents can buffer against pandemic-related consequences in health and happiness. Family health practitioners should promote these intergenerational qualities in families, which in turn should increase positive psychosocial and health outcomes in the context of a pandemic.