Semester of Graduation

Summer 2022

Degree

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

The Dual-Factor Model of mental health highlights the need to consider both constructs associated with psychopathology and subjective well-being in relation to clinical outcomes. Harm avoidance, which is associated with behavioral inhibition, has been negatively associated with cognitive change. While subjective well-being has been positively associated with cognition. The current study aimed to examine both constructs in a single model to examine well-being as a moderator of the association of harm avoidance with cognitive decline. A sample of 728 older adults from the Rush University Memory and Aging Project was used. Participants completed batteries of questionnaires and neuropsychological tests at baseline and yearly follow-ups. Mixed effects models were conducted to examine to what degree well-being moderated the association of harm avoidance with cognitive decline across multiple cognitive domains. Well-being was a more unique robust predictor of cognitive change over time. Higher well-being reduced the negative effects of harm avoidance over time for episodic memory. Taken together, the present study offers further support for targeting positive psychological interventions for successful aging.

Date

7-10-2022

Committee Chair

Calamia, Matthew

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.5617

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