COGNITVE FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SOCIAL SUPPORT
IN ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED MOTHERS:
COGNITIVE FLEXIBILITY AND SOCIAL PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS
Open Access
Author:
Thomas, Amy Rebecca
Area of Honors:
Psychology
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Dr. Sandra T Azar, Thesis Supervisor Dr. Sandra T Azar, Thesis Supervisor William Ray, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
social support disadvantaged population cognitive flexibility social problem solving skills
Abstract:
Little research has been done regarding what is required to maintain a social support network. However, this is an important area of study because social support has been shown to act as a buffer against the negative effects of stress. Individual capacities may play a role in the ability to maintain relationships. One such factor that may be crucial is cognitive flexibility. Cognitive flexibility allows the individual to have better social problem solving skills. If someone has high cognitive flexibility capacity, they are more likely to be able to solve social problems in varying ways, therefore, maintaining healthy relationships and a supportive network. This study examined cognitive flexibility and social problem solving skills as predictors of social support. Results showed a positive trend between cognitive flexibility and social problem solving skills (r= .22, p= .086). No statically significant results were found linking cognitive flexibility and problem solving with social support. Exploratory analysis was done to further examine the social support measure. This analysis showed trends which are discussed.
