Strength Through Struggle: Family Functioning in the Face of Economic Adversity

Abstract

Economic adversity is a well-established risk factor for poor mental health, particularly in low-income communities. Yet much of the literature focuses on what low-income families lack, rather than how they adapt. This thesis takes a strengths-based approach, examining whether family functioning can buffer the mental health effects of cumulative economic adversity. Using cross-sectional data from a larger longitudinal study (N = 276) based in a low to mid income area, we investigated three primary research questions: (1) Does cumulative economic adversity predict symptoms of depression and anxiety? (2) Is family functioning associated with mental health outcomes? (3) Does family functioning moderate the impact of economic adversity on mental health? We hypothesized that greater adversity would be linked to higher symptoms of depression and anxiety, and that stronger family functioning would be associated with fewer symptoms. We also expected that high-functioning families would buffer the effects of economic adversity on mental health outcomes. Findings supported the first two hypotheses. Cumulative economic adversity significantly predicted greater symptoms of depression and anxiety, while stronger family functioning was associated with better mental health. However, contrary to the third hypothesis, the mental health consequences of adversity were more pronounced among individuals in high-functioning families. This unexpected finding suggests that while strong relational processes promote well-being, they may not always buffer against the psychological toll of severe or prolonged economic stress. These results contribute to a more nuanced understanding of family resilience, highlighting that families can maintain high functioning even amid economic adversity and its mental health impacts. While strong family relationships offer critical support, they cannot fully offset the impacts of adversity. Programs that strengthen family processes may serve as a valuable complement to broader efforts to reduce inequality.