Li J, Zhang J. Personality traits and depressive symptoms among Chinese older people: A network approach.
J Affect Disord 2024;
351:74-81. [PMID:
38281593 DOI:
10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.215]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The present study aims to investigate the network structure of depressive symptoms, the interrelationships between individual personality traits and depressive symptoms, and gender differences among Chinese older people aged 60 and above.
METHOD
We performed network analyses with a regularized Graphical Gaussian Model and a case-dropping bootstrap approach. A sample of 4876 older Chinese people aged 60+ was included in the analyses. We investigated the central symptoms in the depression network and the bridge nodes that connect personality facets and depressive symptoms. Gender differences were investigated by testing the global strength, network invariance, and edge weights.
RESULTS
Sadness and depressed mood were the most central depressive symptoms, while somatic symptoms such as restless sleep were the least central. Neurotic facets, particularly "worry a lot" and "get nervous easily", played significant bridging roles in the web of personality traits and depressive symptoms. Gender differences were observed in three edges among different personality traits (rude-worried, original-worried, and forgiving-nervous).
LIMITATION
The study adopts a cross-sectional dataset, and therefore, cannot track the network changes over time or conclude a causal relationship.
DISCUSSION
The study calls for more focus and prioritization on sadness, depressed mood and neurotic traits in the identification of depression among older Chinese people. Future researchers and practitioners should better understand of older Chinese adults' worry and nervousness to develop appropriate practices and policies.
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