Does stress promote or inhibit romantic partner support? A systematic review of competing hypotheses

Abstract

Stress can negatively impact individual and relationship functioning. Romantic partner support is often assessed as a moderator of the effect of stress on well-being. However, partner support is also conceptualized as a response to stress, highlighting a direct connection between stress and the support process. The support mobilization and deterioration models make competing claims about whether support increases or decreases in the face of stress, respectively. To clarify these rival assertions, this review synthesizes research on the direct effects of stress on partner support, identifying the circumstances in which support may occur. Results suggest that stress can prompt or inhibit romantic partner support depending on characteristics of the context in which it is elicited and study design. Discussion centers on methodological approaches to further clarify the effects of stress on support. Theoretical approaches to resilience must account for the influences of stressors on the resilience processes that are required to adapt.