Women in their 40-59's who had, at least, one teen-aged children were
relatively often stressed about their children and relationship with parents. The
subjects of this study were 281 married women living in Tokyo. For data
handling, statistical data on percentage were obtained, and frequency analysis,
ANOVA, the pearson correlation analysis and hierarchical multiple regression
analysis were utilized using the SAS program. The result of this study are as
follows: First, this research presented that the average values on perceived stress,
social support and stress response were about 1.62±0.48, 3.26±0.66 and 2.17±0.58,
respectively. The level of stress reaction and social support showed high level and
stressor showed low in general. Second, there were difference in stressor and
stress response among middle-aged women according to background variables.
Third, there was a significant positive correlation on stress response over all the
field of stressor. But there was a significant negative correlation between social
support and stress response. Fourth, Housework and Emotional Support had the
biggest influence on levels of depression among middle-aged married women. In
conclusion, Stressor and Social support were major influencing factor to Stress
Reaction in the middle aged women. Based on the findings of this study,
researchers should develop an integrated support program for middle-aged women