Abstract

Young adults are feeling the pressure to have a steady relationship. Using data from ‘Young in Ghent’ (N = 735), this study examines whether (1) young adults (18-25 year) with a (cohabiting) partner also have a better mental health, and whether (2) there exist gender differences. Furthermore, (3) the deficit paradigm as a dominant explanation model is challenged by looking at the specific social support advantages of singles. The results show that there is only a positive association between relationship status and mental health among young women, but not among men. To a great extent, this association can be explained by differences in the perceived stress. Moreover, young adults who are single compensate the lack of social support from the partner by expecting more social support from their friends and parents. These complementary support is buffering the negative effect of the relationship status on depression among young women.

How to Cite:

Verhaeghe, P. & Van de Putte, B., (2009) “Single zkt. lief tgn. depressie?: de relatie tussen partnerstatus en mentale gezondheid bij jongvolwassenen”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 30(4), 367–389. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86742