Preprint · Jul 21, 2022
Psychological Flexibility across the Lifespan in Dutch adults
By Slot M, Reijnders JSAM, Janssens M et al.
Psychological flexibility provides the ability to react upon and adapt to challenges, including thoughts, feelings or events, in a way that is consistent with personal values, thereby enhancing or sustaining wellbeing. The aim of this study is to improve our understanding of age-graded differences in psychological flexibility, by examining the relationship between (subcomponents of) psychological flexibility and age in a Dutch general population sample (N = 1770; Mage (SD) = 55.77 (14.31); 36.3% male and 63.7% female respondents). The results show that an inverted U-shaped model best supported the relationship between psychological flexibility and age, with an estimated peak at 59.44 years. For the subcomponents of psychological flexibility different patterns were observed. Demographic variables (education, marital status, employment) and positive affect played a significant role. The results have practical implication, especially valuable in our modern society with current challenges (for example covid-19, increasing digitalization).