Perceived stress and wellness in early adolescents using the Neuman Systems Model.

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between perceived stress and wellness in early adolescents and to test primary appraisal as a mediator of this relationship using the Neuman Systems Model as the primary framework. The sample consisted of 144 adolescents, ages 12-14, who responded to instruments measuring perceived stress, primary appraisal, and wellness in classroom settings. Correlational analysis supported the three hypothesized relationships. A series of regression analyses indicated that primary appraisal was a weak mediator of the relationship between perceived stress and wellness. Implications for nursing and recommendations for future studies were addressed.