Dynamics of Family Economic Hardship and the Progression of Health Problems of Husbands and Wives During the Middle Years: A Perspective From Rural Mid-West

Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of theoretically important dimensions of stability and change in economic hardship during early middle years on decade-long health problems of husbands and wives. Method: The study used prospective data collected from 360 middle-aged husbands and wives during a 12-year period. The variables included self-reported economic hardship (22 items), mental and physical health, and physical impairment. Results: The results supported the hypothesis that the dynamics of family economic hardship (in terms of stability and change) during the early middle years contribute to subsequent onset of health problems of middle-aged husbands and wives. These health problems in turn progress as an interrelated process through intrahealth-domain continuities, cross-health domain proliferations, and dyadic associations as they pass through midlife. Discussion: A better understanding of these processes may aid in the formation and effective implementation of health promotion programs for middle-aged husbands and wives.