Brief Report: Protective or Risk Factor? Aftermath Effects of Perceived Social Support on Embitterment during the COVID-19 Pandemic

There are indications for a raise in embitterment during the COVID-19 pandemic. As embitterment is related to felt social exclusion, pessimism, and a proneness toward COVID-19-related conspiracy beliefs, embitterment may be a key factor to consider in the current pandemic. However, perceived social support (PSS), which is associated with hope during the COVID-19 pandemic could serve as an important resilience factor for bitterness. We therefore investigated the effects of PSS on embitterment in aftermath of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. 52 individuals participated in our follow-up online study in October 2020 (T1) and May 2021 (T2). Embitterment (measured with the Berne Embitterment Inventory) and PSS were repeatedly assessed at T1 and T2. A double moderation analysis was conducted, using the PROCESS macro to examine the effects of embitterment, PSS, and age on embitterment 6 months later. The results suggest that the prediction of embitterment at T2 by embitterment at T1 was altered by changes in PSS. Here, in particular participants with high embitterment at T1 and a gain in PSS had higher embitterment scores at T2, whereas participants with low embitterment were found to have lower embitterment scores. This interaction effect was further influenced by the age of the participants, where the effects were more pronounced among middle-aged participants than younger participants. As embittered individuals seem to grow in bitterness with a gain in PSS, support is found for the notion that embittered individuals seeking allies supporting their mindset.

Automated summary

There are signs of increased embitterment during the COVID-19 pandemic, linked to social exclusion, pessimism, and COVID-19-related conspiracy beliefs. Perceived social support (PSS) may act as a resilience factor for bitterness by promoting hope. Our study examined the impact of PSS on embitterment after the second wave of the pandemic. Results suggest that changes in PSS alter the prediction of embitterment, particularly among middle-aged participants. Those with high embitterment at T1 and increased PSS had higher embitterment scores at T2, while low embitterment at T1 was associated with lower embitterment scores. These findings support the idea that embittered individuals seek support for their mindset.