Is sense of coherence a mediator between adversity and psychological well-being in adults?

The role and status of sense of coherence (SOC) in psychological functioning are still unclear. A conceptual model in which sense of coherence mediates the relationship between adverse experiences and psychological well-being was developed and estimated using structural equation modeling. Data was obtained from a sample of 193 adults (30-85 years old). The mediating role of sense of coherence was demonstrated by using the rationale and procedure suggested by Holmbeck. The buffering effect of sense of coherence was demonstrated through multi-group analyses (weak vs. strong SOC groups). Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.