Research Snapshot: The Impact of Supportive and Stressful Relationships on Disadvantaged Youth

Key findings from a study on how the social relationships of socioeconomically disadvantaged youth can both support and strain their wellbeing

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Supportive social relationships are often thought of as foundational to having a fulfilling life, while stressful relationships are seen as sources of burden and frustration. Much research has examined the benefits of positive social relationships, and a few studies have looked at the downsides of negative social relationships.

This study examined both stress and support in the social relationships of youth from less-resourced backgrounds and the effects on their wellbeing.

This research builds on our growing understanding of the Family Wellbeing component of the Vanier Institute’s Family Diversities and Wellbeing Framework.

Ahn, J. S., Dupéré, V., Descary, G., Olivier, E., & Hébert, S. T. (2025, April 15). The hidden weight of relationships: How support and strain shape well-being in socioeconomically disadvantaged youth. Journal of Youth and Adolescence. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-025-02180-1