Trajectories of physiological and perceived stress among South African youth: the role of developmentally nurturing relationships

Although research on stress – measured through self-reports or physiological markers – has been increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa, little is known about its nature during adolescence. This study aimed to describe among South African youth different trajectories of physiological stress (salivary cortisol), perceived stress (self-reports), and potential predictors of these trajectories, that is, indicators of developmentally nurturing relationships and demographic variables. Participants (71; Mage = 11.58, SDage = 0.62) took part in an intensive longitudinal study of 16 weekly salivary cortisol assessment and completion of a brief survey. Growth mixture modelling was used to identify trajectories of salivary cortisol and self-reported stress, followed by multinomial logistic regression to examine predictors of the identified trajectories. Findings, including heterogeneity in physiological (three) and perceived stress (five) trajectories and varying associations between predictors and classes, highlight the dynamic role of person ⇔ context relations in shaping these trajectories and underscore the need for person-specific, context-sensitive approaches in stress interventions and research.