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Chen R, Liu G, Li S, Kong F. Association between different patterns of social participation and loneliness among the Chinese older people: is there a local-migrant gap? BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:802. [PMID: 39354339 PMCID: PMC11443870 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05391-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little empirical evidences were provided on the disparity in the level of loneliness between the migrant older with children (MOC) and their local counterpart in China. This study aimed to explore the association between social participation and loneliness and verify whether there was a local-migrant difference in this association. METHODS A total of 1332 older people (60 +) were included in this study with 656 MOC and 676 natives. Loneliness was assessed by the University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale with eight items (ULS-8). Social participation was evaluated by three kinds of social activities concerning sports activities, hobby activities and community resident interaction. Univariate analysis was conducted to compare the local-migrant disparity as well as the level of loneliness between different subgroups. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the proposed relationship and the moderating influence of migration status. RESULTS The average ULS-8 scores were 11.73 ± 4.02 for local subjects and 12.82 ± 4.05 for MOC respectively, indicating a lower level of loneliness among local older people. Participating in hobby activities (β = -0.092, P = 0.003) and interacting with residents (β = -0.216, P = 0.001) more frequently were related to lower level of loneliness while participating in square dancing was related to higher level of loneliness (β = 0.087, P = 0.001). The negative relationships between hobby activities as well as resident interaction and loneliness were more profound in migrants than natives. CONCLUSIONS Only two types of social participation could help alleviate loneliness. More attention to older migrants' loneliness and extending the scale and types of social activities were recommended for policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Chen
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, 250012, China
- Institute of Health and Elderly Care, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Guangwen Liu
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, 250012, China
- Institute of Health and Elderly Care, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Shixue Li
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, 250012, China.
- Institute of Health and Elderly Care, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Fanlei Kong
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, 250012, China.
- Institute of Health and Elderly Care, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
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Chen J, Chen M. Trajectories of Intergenerational Emotional Closeness in Multi-Child Aging Families in China. Res Aging 2024; 46:314-326. [PMID: 38243368 DOI: 10.1177/01640275241229683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Intergenerational emotional closeness (IEC) in multi-child families manifests not only in the overall parent-child relationship but also by the extent of its within-family differentiation. This study aimed to identify distinct trajectories of collective IEC in multi-child families and to examine its potential associated factors. The study used four waves of the China Family Panel Studies (2010-2018). Based on a sample of 3474 older adults (age >60), growth mixture modelling and logistic regression were conducted. Two latent trajectory patterns of IEC were identified: increasingly tight-knit (93%) and persistently collectively ambivalent (7%). Compared to the latter trajectory, older adults who had a married/cohabiting partner, had better health and received support from all children, were more likely to have increasingly tight-knit trajectories of IEC. The study tells a story more about emotional cohesion between Chinese older adults and multiple offspring over time. Aging families experiencing persistently collectively ambivalent IEC deserve more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Chen
- Department of Social Work, School of Sociology and Political Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengni Chen
- Department of Sociology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Sharifi S, Babaei Khorzoughi K, Rahmati M. The association between intergenerational relationships and depression among older adults: A comprehensive systematic literature review. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 119:105313. [PMID: 38101113 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine the relationship between intergenerational relationships and depression among older adults in Eastern Asian countries. METHODS For this research, a systematic search was conducted on several electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar search engine up until June 2023. RESULTS Out of 953 articles initially identified, 33 met the inclusion criteria. Emotional support and financial support emerged as crucial factors that can significantly reduce depressive symptoms among older individuals. However, there are diverse and sometimes contradictory results regarding the impact of intergenerational instrumental support on depression in older adults. CONCLUSION Promoting positive intergenerational relationships and enhancing support systems can greatly benefit the mental health of older adults by addressing depression within this population. This review enhances our understanding of the complex relationship between intergenerational relationships and depression among older adults. The diverse findings on intergenerational instrumental support and depression in older adults suggest the need for further research to clarify this relationship and its nuances. This research may have practical implications for policies and interventions aimed at improving the mental well-being of older adults in Eastern Asian countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Sharifi
- Department of geriatric and psychiatric nursing, School of nursing and midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Kimia Babaei Khorzoughi
- Faculty of education and psychology, Islamic Azad University Isfahan (khorasgan) branch, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Rahmati
- Department of geriatric and psychiatric nursing, School of nursing and midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah, Iran
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Wei Y, Tsay WJ. Does Distance Make Happiness? Geographic Proximity of Adult Children and the Well-being of Older Persons. J Aging Soc Policy 2024; 36:222-240. [PMID: 35614535 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2080464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates the association between the intergenerational geographic proximity of adult children and the well-being of older persons in China. Data from the 2014 wave of the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey was analyzed using probit analysis. Results reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between the geographic proximity of adult children and the well-being of older people in urban but not rural areas. Older adults who live independently but with adult children living close by have significantly higher life satisfaction than those who live with or at a distance from their children. The findings suggest that more comprehensive top-level policy designs with respect to the allocation and management of affordable housing should be employed to encourage nearby-living and hence improve the system for supporting older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wei
- School of Statistics, Xi'an University of Finance and Economics, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen-Jen Tsay
- The Institute of Economics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Lee H, Kim J, Zrínyi M. Mental health effects of adult children's outmigration on older parents in Central and Eastern Europe. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:353-359. [PMID: 37811709 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2260327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between adult children's migration and depression among older parents in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and explore the role of intergenerational support in contributing to their depression. METHODS Data are from the eighth wave of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), pooling a study sample of 11 CEE countries, with a cross-sectional design. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and hierarchical linear regression were conducted using a study sample of 9133 respondents. RESULTS Older adults whose children migrated over 500 km were more likely to experience depression compared to those with no migrant child or all children within 500 km. Among intergenerational support, frequent parent-child contact mitigated the effects of migration on depression in older parents with all their children who migrated over 500 km. CONCLUSION This study suggests that older parents with migrant children over 500 km away should be considered a vulnerable population at risk for mental health in CEE countries. It is crucial for local governments and policymakers to address these challenges through improving integrated mental health and social programs for better mental health outcomes among older adults in CEE countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayoung Lee
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Jaeshin Kim
- Dankook Center for Dispute Resolution, Dankook University, Yongin, South Korea
| | - Miklós Zrínyi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Tang D, Mair CA, Hu Q. Widowhood, social networks, and mental health among Chinese older adults: The moderating effects of gender. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1142036. [PMID: 37077844 PMCID: PMC10106722 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1142036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesThis study aimed to examine the three-way interaction between widowhood, social ties, and gender and its effects on older adults’ mental health, including depressive symptoms and life satisfaction, in the context of China.MethodsParticipants were 7,601 Chinese older adults. Their social network was divided between family and friendship ties, and their mental health was measured by depressive symptoms and life satisfaction. Linear regression was employed to analyze the associations between widowhood, social networks, and mental health, as well as to explore the moderating effect of gender.ResultsWidowhood is associated with more depressive symptoms, but not with life satisfaction, while family and friendship ties are associated with less depressive symptoms and greater life satisfaction. Furthermore, the lack of family ties is associated with more depressive symptoms for widowed men compared to married older men, while it is associated with lower life satisfaction for widowed women compared to married older women.ConclusionFamily ties are the most important social support resource for Chinese older adults, especially for the widowed group. The vulnerability of older widowed men who lack family ties in China deserves public concern and attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tang
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Institute of Gerontology, Family and Gender Study Center, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Christine A. Mair
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Public Health, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Qing Hu
- Institute of Gerontology, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hu Qing,
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Xi JY, Zhong SR, Zhou YX, Lin X, Hao YT. Effects of family multi-generational relationship on multimorbidity and healthy life expectancy for second generations: insight from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:100. [PMID: 36800942 PMCID: PMC9938571 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03714-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the context of aging, Chinese families consisting of more than three generations (grandparents, parents, children) are the norm. The second generation (parents) and other family members may establish a downward (contact only with children) or two-way multi-generational relationship (contact with children and grandparents). These multi-generational relationships may have the potential effect on multimorbidity burden and healthy life expectancy in the second generation, but less is known about the direction and intensity of this effect. This study aims to explore this potential effect. METHODS We obtained longitudinal data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study from 2011 to 2018, which included 6,768 people. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the association between multi-generational relationships and the number of multimorbidity. The Markov multi-state transition model was used to analyze the relationship between multi-generational relationships and the severity of multimorbidity. The multistate life table was used to calculate healthy life expectancy for different multi-generational relationships. RESULTS The risk of multimorbidity in two-way multi-generational relationship was 0.830 (95% CIs: 0.715, 0.963) times higher than that in downward multi-generational relationship. For mild multimorbidity burden, downward and two-way multi-generational relationship may prevent aggravation of burden. For severe multimorbidity burden, two-way multi-generational relationship may aggravate the burden. Compared with two-way multi-generational relationship, the second generations with downward multi-generational relationship has a higher healthy life expectancy at all ages. CONCLUSION In Chinese families with more than three generations, the second generations with severe multimorbidity burden may aggravate the condition by providing support to elderly grandparents, and the support provided by offspring to the second generations plays a vital positive role in improving the quality of life and narrowing the gap between healthy life expectancy and life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Yan Xi
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XDepartment of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74Th Zhongshan 2Nd Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 China
| | - Si-Rui Zhong
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XDepartment of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74Th Zhongshan 2Nd Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 China
| | - Yu-Xiao Zhou
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XDepartment of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74Th Zhongshan 2Nd Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74Th Zhongshan 2Nd Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Yuan-Tao Hao
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74Th Zhongshan 2Nd Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Peking University Center for Public Health and Epidemic Preparedness & Response, Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, 100191, Beijing, China. .,Sun Yat-Sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Center for Health Information Research, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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Lin Z, Tang D. Separated kin: location of multiple children and mental health trajectories of older parents in rural China. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:425-433. [PMID: 34951553 PMCID: PMC9226199 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.2019191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines the longitudinal association between the location of multiple children and depressive symptoms of older parents in rural China, where massive rural-to-urban migration has profoundly altered the family life of the aging population. METHODS Using seven waves of panel data from the Longitudinal Study of Older Adults in Anhui Province (2001-2018, N = 8,253) and multilevel growth curve models, this study compares mental health trajectories of old parents across different compositions of local and migrant children over an 18-year time period. RESULTS The results show that older parents with a greater share of adult children who had migrated away not only scored worse mental health on average, but also experienced a more rapid increase in depressive symptoms across ages, after accounting for other covariates. Further, older adults who had their most children migrated away for a longer period of time suffered from the steeper rate of increase in depressive symptoms as they got older. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that it is not the geographic locality of a single child but the location of multiple children that matters for parental mental health in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Lin
- Center on Aging and Population Sciences and Population Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin
| | - Dan Tang
- Population Development Studies Center, Renmin University of China, Beijing
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Chiang SC, Bai S. Reciprocal Influences among Marital Relationship, Parent-Adolescent Relationship, and Youth Depressive Symptoms. JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY 2022; 84:962-981. [PMID: 36203477 PMCID: PMC9531865 DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drawing on family systems framework, this study investigated the reciprocal prospective associations between marital relationship quality, parent-adolescent closeness and conflict, and adolescent depressive symptoms among families in Taiwan. BACKGROUND The family systems theory posits reciprocity between family subsystems. However, the direction of influences between marital relationship quality, parent-adolescent relationship quality and adolescent well-being may be more unidirectional in Chinese societies due to hierarchical family values. METHOD Data were from a longitudinal survey of 2,292 parent-youth dyads in the Taiwan Youth Project. Cross-lagged path models were used to test the bidirectional associations between marital relationship quality, parent-adolescent closeness and conflict, and adolescent depressive symptoms from ages 12 to 18. RESULTS Our primary hypothesis that marital relationship quality predicts parent-adolescent relationship quality, which then predicts adolescent depressive symptoms in a unidirectional manner was partially substantiated. Moreover, marital relationship quality directly predicted fewer depressive symptoms from middle to late adolescence and indirectly from early to late adolescence via parent-adolescent relationship quality in middle adolescence. We also found that child depressive symptoms predicted less parent-adolescent closeness, and more conflicts which predicted poorer marital relationship quality, particularly in early adolescence. CONCLUSION Extending the family systems theory, findings suggest that marital relationship quality plays a dominant role in the health and well-being of Taiwanese families, especially as adolescents mature. Results highlight the importance of testing theories in families from diverse cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou-Chun Chiang
- Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University
| | - Sunhye Bai
- Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University
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10
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Zhou JJ, Bai X. Influence of intergenerational relationships on depressive symptoms in ageing Chinese adults in Hong Kong: Mediating effects of sense of loneliness. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:587. [PMID: 35840878 PMCID: PMC9287879 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03269-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mental health of older adults could be positively predicted by harmonious parent–adult children relationships, although the mechanism has not been sufficiently demonstrated. This study employed sense of loneliness as mediator to examine the influence of multiple domains of intergenerational relationships on depressive symptoms in ageing Chinese adults. Methods Data was extracted from a representative survey in Hong Kong among Chinese adults aged over 50 with at least one adult child (n = 801). Four key domains (structural–associational, consensual–normative, affectual closeness, and intergenerational conflict) were adopted to measure the intergenerational relationship quality. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the five-item Geriatric Depression Scale. The mediating role of sense of loneliness in the association between intergenerational relationships and depressive symptoms were tested by the PROCESS macro in SPSS. Results The influence of overall intergenerational relationship quality and its four subdomains on depressive symptoms were significantly mediated by sense of loneliness. Among the four domains, affectual closeness presented the strongest association with older people’s depressive symptoms. The effect of intergenerational conflict on depressive symptoms was completely mediated by sense of loneliness, and the effects of remaining three domains were partially mediated. The domain of consensual–normative solidarity received the lowest rating by Chinese older adults. Conclusion The psychological pathway that loneliness links intergenerational relationships and depressive symptoms was supported in this study. With respect to improving intergenerational relationships, enhancing affectual connection between older parents and adult children was essential to prevent mental problems. This study calls for more attention to the protective role of diverse social relationships in improving mental health through multiple pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Jia Zhou
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xue Bai
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China. .,Institute of Active Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
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Zhang Y, Zou B, Zhang H, Zhang J. Empirical Research on Male Preference in China: A Result of Gender Imbalance in the Seventh Population Census. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6482. [PMID: 35682066 PMCID: PMC9180325 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
The Seventh National Population Census, recently conducted in 2020, reported the most up-to-date information on the size, structure, and distribution of China's population. The results showed that the gender imbalance in China is still severe compared with the international standard. With the aim of understanding what has contributed to China's gender imbalance, this study examined a range of potential influencing factors and measured the extent to which they have affected China's sex structure. We gathered data from 3100 citizens (100 surveys from each provincial-level administrative region in mainland China); the useful response rate was 87.5% (2713/3100). We relied on statistical analysis to investigate the phenomenon of male preference in China and used a logit regression to analyze the factors associated with this result. We inspected the factors associated with the perception according to gender, age, annual income, living location, educational level, nationality, family contribution, the ideology of being supported by sons, social status, ability to generate money, and carrying on the family name. The results showed that, among these factors, the relationship of family contribution, the ideology of being supported by sons, and carrying on the family name with male preference was significant. This study is among the first to explore the factors affecting male preference that could have resulted in China's gender imbalance. The findings of this research are also important as references for the development of the population strategy and policy instruments used to manage the demographic problems in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhe Zhang
- Northeast Asian Research Center of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
- Northeast Asian Studies College, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (B.Z.); (H.Z.)
- School of Northeast Asia, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Bowen Zou
- Northeast Asian Studies College, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (B.Z.); (H.Z.)
- School of Northeast Asia, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Huai Zhang
- Northeast Asian Studies College, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (B.Z.); (H.Z.)
- School of Northeast Asia, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of International Economics and International Relations, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110136, China
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Ruan H, Shen K, Chen F. Negative Life Events, Social Ties, and Depressive Symptoms for Older Adults in China. Front Public Health 2022; 9:774434. [PMID: 35127620 PMCID: PMC8810507 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.774434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it is widely acknowledged that older adults who have gone through negative life events are more likely to develop depression, there is limited evidence on whether and which type of social ties moderate this perceived relationship. Based on 2016 and 2018 waves of Chinese Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (4,466 individuals, 8,932 observations), we apply linear fixed effects models and confirm that negative life events are associated with depressive symptoms for older adults (Coef. = 0.35; 95% CIs 0.11–0.61), and social ties are negatively associated with depression (Coef. = −0.08; 95% CIs −0.10 to −0.07). Our study further suggests that the association between negative life events and depressive symptoms is significantly moderated by friendship ties (Coef. = −0.18, 95% CIs −0.30 to −0.07), rather than family ties (Coef. = −0.03, 95% CIs −0.09 to 0.15). Moreover, the buffering effects of friendship ties are more prominent for the less resilient and less privileged groups, namely male, rural, and less educated older adults. Our findings point to the importance of expanding and strengthening social networks for Chinese older adults in promoting their psychological health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangqing Ruan
- Department of Sociology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Ke Shen
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Ke Shen
| | - Feinian Chen
- Department of Sociology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Greenblatt-Kimron L, Kestler-Peleg M, Even-Zohar A, Lavenda O. Death Anxiety and Loneliness among Older Adults: Role of Parental Self-Efficacy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189857. [PMID: 34574776 PMCID: PMC8470864 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Death anxiety and loneliness are major issues for older people. The present study aimed to broaden the understanding of factors that are linked with increased loneliness in old age by examining the association between death anxiety and loneliness, and the role of an unexplored variable among older adults, namely, parental self-efficacy. A convenience sample of 362 Israeli parents over the age of 65 was recruited through means of social media. Participants completed self-reported questionnaires, which included background characteristics, death anxiety, parental self-efficacy, and loneliness measures. The findings showed that death anxiety was positively associated with loneliness among older adults. The findings also confirmed that parental self-efficacy moderated this association in this population. We concluded that the combination of death anxiety and low parental self-efficacy identified a group of older adults that are at higher risk of developing increased loneliness levels. Mental health professionals should consider intergenerational relationships as a fundamental component of older adults' daily lives, focusing on parental self-efficacy in old age, as this appears to be a resilience resource.
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14
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Jiang C, Jiang S. Elder mistreatment and life satisfaction of older adults: mediating roles of emotional closeness with children and loneliness. J Elder Abuse Negl 2021; 33:351-367. [PMID: 34530689 DOI: 10.1080/08946566.2021.1980171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Elder mistreatment is a risk factor in the life satisfaction of older adults, yet understanding of its underlying mechanisms remains limited. This study investigates the mediating role of emotional closeness and loneliness in the association between elder mistreatment and life satisfaction. A sample of 8,717 Chinese older adults is obtained from the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey. Results reveal that emotional mistreatment has a negative effect on the life satisfaction of older adults. Moreover, emotional mistreatment is associated with a low level of emotional closeness and a high degree of loneliness, which further decreases life satisfaction. However, emotional closeness with children did not significantly mediate the association between physical mistreatment and life satisfaction. This study advances the comprehension of the influencing path on how elder mistreatment affects the life satisfaction of older adults. Implications for policy and intervention programs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoxin Jiang
- Department of Social Welfare and Risk Management, School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Department of Sociology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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15
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Chen J, Zhou X. Within-family patterns of intergenerational emotional closeness and psychological well-being of older parents in China. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:711-719. [PMID: 31928065 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1711867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: There may be a substantial difference in the intergenerational emotional closeness among offspring in a multi-child family, both regarding the overall level as well as the extent to which older parents differentiate emotional closeness between their children. This study addressed different within-family patterns based on the average level and differentiation of older parent-child emotional closeness. It also examined the associations between these distinct patterns and the psychological well-being of older parents in China.Method: We derived a final sample of 4247 older parents (aged 60+) with 14,461 children from the baseline wave (2010) of the China Family Panel Studies. A latent profile analysis was applied to classify within-family patterns based on two indicators: within-family mean level and differentiation of parent-child emotional closeness among offspring. Ordered logistic regression and ordinary least square (OLS) regression were used to investigate the associations between these patterns and older adults' life satisfaction and depression, respectively.Results: Two family patterns of parent-child emotional closeness were identified: tight-knit (91.50%) and highly ambivalent (8.50%). Compared with the former, older parents having highly ambivalent relationships across multiple offspring tended to have lower life satisfaction and higher levels of depression.Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of capturing different within-family dynamics of intergenerational emotional closeness in Chinese families. It also pointed out the negative effects of collective ambivalence for older adults' psychological well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Chen
- Department of Social Work, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaochen Zhou
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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16
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Providing instrumental support to older parents of multi-child families in China: are there different within-family patterns? AGEING & SOCIETY 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x21000283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractOlder parents in China rely heavily on their adult children for instrumental assistance. In different multi-child families, multiple offspring may co-operate in providing instrumental support to older parents in distinct ways in terms of how much support they provide on average and how much differentiation exists between them when they provide such support within a family. We aimed to identify different within-family patterns in relation to multiple offspring's instrumental support to an older parent in Chinese multi-child families, and to investigate potential predictors for different within-family patterns. Using data from the China Family Panel Studies (2016), we had a working sample of 5,790 older adults aged 60+ (mean = 68.54, standard deviation = 6.60). We employed latent profile analysis (LPA) to classify within-family patterns and multinomial logistic regression to investigate predictors. Our findings identified three within-family patterns: dissociated (59.10%), highly differentiated (29.60%) and united-filial (11.30%). Older parents in the highly differentiated families tended to be older, mothers, divorced/widowed and to have poorer physical health compared to their counterparts in the dissociated families. In contrast, the composition characteristics of multiple adult children played more important roles in determining the united-filial within-family pattern. The united-filial families were more likely to have fewer adult children, at least one adult daughter and at least one co-residing adult child.
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17
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Song Q, Wang H, Burr JA. Depressive Symptoms among Rural "Left-Behind" Older Adults: A Test of the High Outmigration Penalty Hypothesis. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 77:592-603. [PMID: 33693645 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated whether there was a "high outmigration penalty" for psychological health among older adults in rural China by assessing two potential community stressors associated with major sociodemographic changes in the community - increased outmigration and older adult density. We also investigated whether disparities in community economic conditions moderated the association between community stressors and depressive symptoms. METHODS We employed three waves of data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011-2015), using multilevel negative binomial models to address our research questions. RESULTS Our results supported the "high outmigration penalty" hypothesis. Older adults living in low-income rural communities may experience an aggravated mental health penalty compared to those living in high-income rural communities. Higher older adult density was also associated with more depressive symptoms but only in less wealthy communities. Community differences in economic conditions were key factors buffering the high outmigration disadvantage associated with the psychological health of older Chinese adults. DISCUSSION Rural outmigration may have deepened existing inter-community health disparities among older adults. Policies should be developed to address community-level factors negatively associated with the well-being of older Chinese adults living in high outmigration and less wealthy rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Song
- Department of Gerontology, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston
| | - Haowei Wang
- Population Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University
| | - Jeff A Burr
- Department of Gerontology, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston
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18
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Lei L, Lin Z. From Traditional and Socialist Work-Unit Communities to Commercial Housing: The Association between Neighborhood Types and Adult Health in Urban China. CHINESE SOCIOLOGICAL REVIEW 2021; 53:254-284. [PMID: 34484858 PMCID: PMC8412143 DOI: 10.1080/21620555.2021.1890010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The urban structure in China has been transformed profoundly through rounds of economic reforms. Over the past 60 years, various types of neighborhoods have emerged at different stages of economic and social transition. Formed and organized in different ways, these neighborhoods provide distinct economic, social, and physical environments to residents. However, little is known about the link between neighborhood types and the health of residents in urban China. Using longitudinal data from the China Labor-Force Dynamics Survey (2012-2014), we estimate multilevel regression models to predict self-rated health (SRH) while controlling for a lagged measure of SRH. Results show that living in traditional communities in old districts and work-unit compounds for state-owned enterprises is associated with better SRH among older adults (≥50 years old) compared with living in other types of neighborhoods, such as commercial-housing communities and migrant enclaves. Neighborhood types do not matter for the health of younger adults (< 50 years old). Neighborhood water quality and distance to facilities are associated with SRH for older adults but do not account for the relationships between neighborhood types and SRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Lei
- Department of Sociology, Rutgers University
| | - Zhiyong Lin
- Center on Aging and Population Sciences and Population Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin
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19
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Changing family relationships and mental health of Chinese adolescents: the role of living arrangements. Public Health 2020; 186:110-115. [DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2020.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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20
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Tang D, Lin Z, Chen F. Moving beyond living arrangements: the role of family and friendship ties in promoting mental health for urban and rural older adults in China. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:1523-1532. [PMID: 30977378 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1602589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This study examines the interplay among living arrangements, social networks, and depressive symptoms among Chinese older adults.Methods: Data are derived from the 2014 baseline survey of the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), which provides a sample of older Chinese who had been married and had children (N = 7,662). This study examines the association between living arrangements and depressive symptoms (measured as CES-D scale, 0-18) of older adults, and addresses the moderating role of social networks (measured as family ties and friendship ties, 0-15) on this perceived association.Results: Our results show that older adults who live both with a spouse and adult children report superior mental health than those living alone (β = 1.240, p < 0.001), but no differences are seen from those living only with a spouse or children. Older adults living alone in rural areas are also more disadvantaged in comparison to those living alone in urban places (β = 0.535, p < 0.05). However, we find that the undesirable consequences associated with depression of older adults living alone can be reduced or even eliminated when older adults have strong friendship ties in rural China (β = -0.145, p < 0.01). We also find that for rural older adults living only with children, their mental health is highly contingent on their family ties, that is, they are extremely disadvantaged when having weak family ties, but benefit most significantly from strong family ties (β = -0.137, p < 0.05).Conclusions: Associations between living arrangements and mental health in later life are contingent on older adults' social networks, and these moderating effects vary between rural and urban China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tang
- Population Development Studies Center, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyong Lin
- Department of Sociology and Maryland Population Research Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Feinian Chen
- Department of Sociology and Maryland Population Research Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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21
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Kalavar JM, Zarit SH, Lecnar C, Magda K. I’m Here, You’re There: In-Absentia Caregiver Stress & Transnational Support of Elderly Mothers by Adult Children. JOURNAL OF INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15350770.2020.1787044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christopher Lecnar
- Penn State University, New Kensington Campus, New Kensington, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kirsten Magda
- Georgia Gwinnett College, Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA
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