Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the developmental processes
involved in the accumulation of problems of social functioning from age 8 to age 36
in men (n = 152) and women (n = 145). The accumulation of risk
factors in childhood and adolescence, including low control of emotions
(aggressiveness and anxiety), school problems (poor adjustment, success, and
motivation), and problems in the family (parental drinking and low socioeconomic
status), predicted career instability, early timing of parenthood, and a sense of
failure at age 27 in both sexes. Similarly, the accumulation of problems of social
functioning (e.g. poor financial standing, poor intimate relationships, and drinking
problems) tended to continue from age 27 to 36, and be reciprocally associated with
career instability at a corresponding age in both men and women. Risk factors in
childhood and adolescence directly explained the accumulation of problems of social
functioning at age 27 only in men. For women, the relationship was indirect: Asense
of failure and the early timing of motherhood mediated risk factors to problems of
social functioning at age 36.
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