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Zhang K, Burr JA, Mutchler JE, Lu J. Internet Use and Loneliness Among Urban and Non-Urban Chinese Older Adults: The Roles of Family Support, Friend Support, and Social Participation. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae081. [PMID: 38742464 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae081] [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: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated the association between internet use and loneliness among older Chinese adults, and the mediating effects of family support, friend support, and social participation. These associations were evaluated in the context of urban and non-urban geographic settings. METHODS This study used data from the 2018 wave of the China Longitudinal Ageing Social Survey (N = 10,126), examining samples of urban (n = 3,917) and non-urban (n = 6,209) older adults separately. Linear regression and path analysis within a structural equation modeling framework were employed. RESULTS Internet use was negatively associated with loneliness for both urban and non-urban residing older adults. Family support and social participation mediated the association between internet use and loneliness for both urban and non-urban residing older Chinese adults, but friend support mediated this association only for urban older residents. DISCUSSION This study shed light on our understanding of the relationship between internet use and loneliness among older adults in the Chinese context. Also, these findings suggested that digital interventions for loneliness should pay special attention to the different characteristics of urban and non-urban dwelling older Chinese adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyu Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Burr
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jan E Mutchler
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jiehua Lu
- Institute for National Strategic Studies on Ageing, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Zhang K, Song Q, Burr JA. Internet use and loneliness among older Chinese adults. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:866-873. [PMID: 37922191 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2278713] [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: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined the association between Internet use and loneliness among Chinese older adults (aged 60+) over a two-year period using nationally representative survey data from China. METHODS Using data from the 2016 and 2018 waves of the China Longitudinal Ageing Social Survey (N = 8,059), we estimated difference-in-differences regression models to assess the association between Internet use and levels of loneliness over time. RESULTS Compared to Internet non-users, Chinese older adults who were new Internet users, as well as those who were continuous Internet users, reported lower levels of loneliness over time (B = -0.21, p < 0.001 and B = -0.16, p < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, those Chinese older adults who used the Internet in wave 1 but then disengaged from using the Internet in wave 2 demonstrated an upward trend in loneliness over time, similar to Internet non-users (the estimate of difference-in-differences was non-significant for the comparison between disengaged-users and non-users: B = -0.03, p = 0.42). CONCLUSION This study provided new evidence to support the potential benefits of Internet use for reducing the risk of loneliness among Chinese older adults. The findings suggested that supporting current Internet users to remain digitally engaged is as important as encouraging Internet non-users to cross the digital divide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyu Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qian Song
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Burr
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Zhao C, Ding H, Du M, Yu Y, Chen JH, Wu AMS, Wang DB, Du M, Chen Y, Luo Q, Yin X, Chen B, Lu P, Lau JTF, Zhang G. The Vicious Cycle between Loneliness and Problematic Smartphone Use among Adolescents: A Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Model. J Youth Adolesc 2024:10.1007/s10964-024-01974-z. [PMID: 38555341 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-024-01974-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Despite extensive research on the psychological impacts of digital technology, the nuanced dynamics between adolescent loneliness and problematic smartphone use, particularly across different educational levels and genders, remain underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by employing a Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Model to dissect the bidirectional relationship between loneliness and problematic smartphone use among adolescents, with a focus on the moderating roles of educational levels and gender. Engaging 3132 students from various educational institutions in China, the research conducted a three-wave longitudinal analysis across 2022-2023. The final number of participants included 1120 adolescents (53.5% female; age in 2022: M = 14.57 years, SD = 1.57). Results reveal that loneliness significantly predicts problematic smartphone use, but not vice versa, highlighting a unidirectional influence. The study uncovers crucial differences across educational levels and gender, emphasizing the stronger effect of loneliness on problematic smartphone use among junior high students and female adolescents. These findings underscore the complexity of adolescent loneliness and its relationship with digital behavior, suggesting a need for tailored interventions considering both gender and developmental stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengjia Zhao
- School of Education, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Huimin Ding
- School of Education, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxuan Du
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yanqiu Yu
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Anise Man-Sze Wu
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Debora Baofeng Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Mengni Du
- Teaching and Research Center, Bureau of Education, Linhai, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Wenzhou Central Hospital, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiujiao Luo
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Yin
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bingru Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ping Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Joseph T F Lau
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
- Center for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Guohua Zhang
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Affiliated Wenzhou Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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Li J, Wang Q, Zhou X. Diversity of purposes of use, time spent online, and depression among older Chinese Internet users. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38436261 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2323953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: Previous studies on the associations between Internet use and older people's depression have mostly focused on single types of online activities, especially online social engagement. The current study investigated the diversity of purposes of Internet use and its interaction with the time spent online in shaping older Chinese Internet users' depression. Method: A sample of 974 Internet users aged 60 and above was adopted from the 2020 China Family Panel Studies wave. We adopted a latent class analysis (LCA) to explore the diverse purposes of internet usage. Results: The participants were classified into three distinct types: socializers, basic users, and maximizers. Basic users and maximizers use the Internet for various purposes, despite different intensities; socializers use the Internet only to keep connected with families and friends. Compared with basic users and maximizers, a longer time spent online among socializers was significantly associated with a higher level of depression. Conclusion: This study calls for a closer examination of online profiles among older Internet users; more attention should be paid to the potential harms of excessive Internet use for social reasons only among older adults. Practitioners should enhance older Internet users' digital literacy to maximize the wide-range benefits of Internet use and reduce potential health inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Graduate Studies, Lingnan University, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaochen Zhou
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
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Du X, Liao J, Ye Q, Wu H. Multidimensional Internet Use, Social Participation, and Depression Among Middle-Aged and Elderly Chinese Individuals: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44514. [PMID: 37647119 PMCID: PMC10500359 DOI: 10.2196/44514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence that the internet has beneficial effects on the mental health of middle-aged and older people (≥45 years), but the evidence is inconclusive, and the underlying mechanisms are less known. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the relationship between multidimensional (devices, frequency, and purpose) internet use and depression in middle-aged and elderly Chinese, as well as the mediating effect of social participation. Moreover, this study will explore the moderating effect of the regional informatization development level (RIDL) on the relationships between individual internet use, social participation, and depression. METHODS Data on 17,676 participants aged 45 years or older were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2018 data set. The 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10) was used to identify the presence of depression. Logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between each dimension of internet use and depression. Multiple linear regression was used to explore the mediating effect of social participation and the moderating effect of the RIDL. RESULTS The results showed that 28.33% (5008/17,676) of the total population had depression. In terms of regional subgroups, respondents living in the western region exhibited the highest proportion of depression (2041/5884, 34.69%). Internet use was negatively associated with depression (odds ratio 0.613, 95% CI 0.542-0.692; P<.001). Various dimensions of internet use positively contributed to individual social participation and reduced individual depression (devices: β=-.170, 95% CI -0.209 to -0.127; frequency: β=-.065, 95% CI -0.081 to -0.047; and purpose: β=-.043, 95% CI -0.053 to -0.031). In addition, the RIDL weakened the relationship between individual-level internet use and social participation (internet use: F74.12,9.82=7.55, P<.001; devices: F51.65/9.88=5.23, P=.005; frequency: F66.74/10.08=6.62, P=.001; and purpose: F66.52/9.78=6.80, P=.001), and negatively moderated the relationship between the frequency of internet use and depression (frequency: F662.67/188.79=3.51, P=.03). CONCLUSIONS This study found that different dimensions of internet use are associated with lower levels of depression. Social participation partially mediates the association between multidimensional internet use and depression in the eastern, central, and western regions, respectively. Additionally, the RIDL helps individuals further their internet use and social participation, reducing the impact of depression. However, this effect weakens sequentially from the western region to the central region and then to the eastern region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwang Du
- Taikang Tongji (Wuhan) Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiazhi Liao
- Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing Ye
- Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Wu
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Shi JG, Liu M, Fu G, Dai X. Internet use among older adults: Determinants of usage and impacts on individuals’ well-being. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Sghaier S, Asiamah N, Danquah E, Opuni FF, Hatsu S. Information technology ability mediates the association between older adults' subjective age and social activity: A STROBE-compliant cross-sectional analysis. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2022; 103:104790. [PMID: 35987033 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2022.104790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between subjective age and social activity has been reported in the extant literature, but whether this association is mediated by information technology ability and its domains (i.e., internet use assessment, packaged software use assessment, and innovativeness attitude) has not been examined. AIM To assess the association between subjective age and social activity and to ascertain whether this association is mediated by information technology ability. METHODS This study adopted a cross-sectional design characterising sensitivity analyses and common methods bias. The participants were 895 community-dwelling older adults aged 60 years or higher in Accra, Ghana. We measured subjective age, information technology ability, and social activity with previously validated Likert scales, each of which was internally consistent at a Cronbach's α ≥0.7. The data were analysed with partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and hierarchical linear regression (HLR) analysis. RESULTS Subjective age was positively associated with social activity, and this association was partially mediated by information technology ability but none of the three domains of information technology ability mediated this relationship. Subjective age was positively associated with information technology ability and its three domains. Information technology ability (but not its domains) was positively associated with social activity. CONCLUSION Older subjective age was associated with higher social activity through information technology ability. Social activity and information technology ability levels among older adults depend on subjective age, which has implications for ageing and gerontology as reported in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarra Sghaier
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, Accra Ghana, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nestor Asiamah
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, Accra Ghana, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra, Ghana; Division of Interdisciplinary Research and Practice, School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester, Wivenhoe Park, CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom.
| | - Emelia Danquah
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, Accra Ghana, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra, Ghana; Department of Procurement and Supply Science, Koforidua Technical University, Koforidua, Eastern Region, Ghana
| | - Frank Frimpong Opuni
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, Accra Ghana, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra, Ghana; Department of Marketing, Accra Technical University, Accra Metro, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sylvester Hatsu
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, Accra Ghana, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra, Ghana; Department of Computer Science, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
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Yang H, Jin J. Shared Destiny in the Digital Era: Sensation Seeking, Loneliness, and Excessive Internet Use among Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Mainland China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13766. [PMID: 36360646 PMCID: PMC9654294 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
With digital infrastructures becoming the foundation of modern life and a shared lifestyle, the internet has become a popular leisure tool for middle-aged and elderly individuals. However, inappropriate use of the internet can jeopardize their health and quality of life, and excessive internet use by middle-aged and older adults is a cause for concern. This study found that middle-aged and older adults are vulnerable to excessive internet use. One predictor of excessive use is loneliness, but its effect is relatively limited. It is a mediating variable rather than the essential cause of excessive internet use by middle-aged and older adults. The effect of sensation seeking is a strong predictor of middle-aged and older adults' excessive internet use, which means they have a strong desire to use the internet to satisfy their emotional needs, thus, resulting in excessive internet use. The social nature of digital infrastructure in a relational framework and the impact of the internet on different populations are likely more complex than we imagine and have the potential to cause many unintended effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Yang
- School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Department of Communication and Media Research, University of Zurich, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jianbin Jin
- School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Sui M, Ding H, Xu B, Zhou M. The Impact of Internet Use on the Happiness of Chinese Civil Servants: A Mediation Analysis Based on Self-Rated Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13142. [PMID: 36293724 PMCID: PMC9603162 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
With the rapid socioeconomic development of China, studies related to Internet use and civil servants' happiness have become a research hotspot in Chinese academia. This study empirically analysed the impact of Internet use on the happiness of Chinese civil servants using a sample of 3793 civil servants in Hunan Province, China. It showed that Internet use significantly enhanced the subjective well-being of Chinese civil servants. Furthermore, heterogeneity analysis revealed significant heterogeneity in the effect of the Internet on civil servants' happiness, which varied across civil service groups with different education and gender. Moreover, the effect of Internet use on the happiness of the male and better educated civil servant groups was more pronounced than in the female and less educated civil servant groups. Additionally, mediation analysis revealed that Internet use and the happiness of civil servants were not linear, with health having a significant mediating effect. This indicates that Internet use helps civil servants maintain good health, and thereby enhances the happiness of civil servants. In addition, we also use a propensity score matching model (PSM) to address the endogeneity problem due to sample selectivity bias. The results show that the estimates are more robust after eliminating sample selectivity bias. The effect of Internet use on civil servants' subjective well-being would be underestimated if the sample selectivity bias is not removed.
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10
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The Effects of Online Social Interactions on Life Satisfaction of Older Chinese Adults: New Insights Based on a Longitudinal Approach. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10101964. [PMID: 36292411 PMCID: PMC9602052 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10101964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Population aging and digitalization have become universal phenomena. Over the past two decades, digital inclusion has started to play a crucial role in supporting successful aging. Based on a nationally representative sample of around 5200 older adults in China over the period of 2014-2018, we explore the effects of online social interactions (OSIs) on the life satisfaction of older adults. We find that OSIs can improve the levels of life satisfaction of older Chinese adults. Estimates from fixed effect and cross-lagged structural equation models further suggest that OSIs work by increasing physical activities, healthy time allocation, interpersonal trust, and informal social engagement and reducing loneliness. We also find that OSIs narrow the social inequality in life satisfaction across groups from rural-urban areas and groups with different social statuses. Moreover, a comparison among different online engagements shows that not all online activities positively affect older adults' life satisfaction. Different online activities have varying effects. Our results highlight that public digital interventions focusing on social functions can benefit the lives of older adults.
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Yang Y, Zeng D, Yang F. Internet Use and Subjective Well-Being of the Elderly: An Analysis of the Mediating Effect Based on Social Capital. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912087. [PMID: 36231387 PMCID: PMC9564528 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
At present, the Internet has a profound impact on the lifestyle and ideas of the elderly and has an important impact on the subjective well-being of the elderly. Based on the data of 2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), 4463 elderly people aged 60 years and above were selected in the empirical research, including 2321 males and 2142 females. The average age was 68.07 (SD = 5.75). The ordinary least square regression (OLS) model was used to test the effect of Internet use on the subjective well-being of the elderly; the structural equation model was used to analyze the influence path of social capital in the process of Internet use affecting the subjective well-being of the elderly, and the Sobel test is used to further verify the mediating effect of social capital. The results indicated the important positive effect of Internet use on the improvement of the subjective well-being of the elderly and confirms the mediating role of social capital in the process of Internet use affecting the subjective well-being of the elderly. Among them, the mediating effects of bonding social capital and bridging social capital accounted for 18.69% and 28.17%, respectively. It can be seen that the mediating effect of bridging social capital is significantly higher than that of bonding social capital. Marital status moderates the latter half of the mediation mechanism of "Internet use-bridging social capital-subjective well-being of the elderly", that is, "bridging social capital-subjective well-being of the elderly."
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Yu X, Liu S. Disparities in Online Use Behaviours and Chinese Digital Inclusion: A 10-Year Comparison. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11937. [PMID: 36231234 PMCID: PMC9565673 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191911937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on the disparities in Chinese online use behaviours (frequency and diversity) based on educational background and socioeconomic status over 10 years to reveal the Chinese digital inclusion process. We used the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) 2010 and 2018 panels and considered the time and cohort effects separately. Ordinary least squares analysis revealed usage frequency. The generalized partial proportional odds model demonstrated participants' prioritization of online study, work, entertainment, and social activity. The results show that the profile of the individuals with the most time spent online has changed from those with high education and income levels to mid-range education and income levels. Individuals with high education and income levels prefer to use the internet for studying and working. There are no clear preference differences between entertainment and social activities amongst most educational backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses. Regarding frequency of internet use, digital inclusion has spread downwards from the upper to the middle classes. Regarding diverse internet uses, upper-class individuals prefer to conduct capital-enhancing activities, and youth remain the main force for diverse online activities; however, over time, middle-aged groups have increased their capital-enhancing activities, and older adults have increased their digital social activities.
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Hu X, Guo C, Liu J, Zhang K. Bridging the Digital Divide: Childhood Social Relationships and Mobile Payment Use Among Chinese Middle-Aged and Older Adults. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:2469-2479. [PMID: 35938737 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221117771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This research accordingly examines the effect of childhood social relationships on the use of mobile payment and e-money among Chinese middle-aged and older adults from a life course perspective and tests the mediation role of social activities in such a path with the Karlson-Holm-Breen (KHB) method. The findings support that good childhood community relationships, peer relationships, and close relationships positively affect mobile payment and electronic money use when people enter middle and old age. These effects are significantly mediated by social activities in later life. The findings make marginal contributions to life course theory (LCT), with practical implications for individuals, commercial enterprises, governments, and societies in their efforts to facilitate a society that promotes the digital inclusion of middle-aged and older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyuan Hu
- Institute of Population Research, 12465Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Guo
- Institute of Population Research, 12465Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Institute of Population Research, 12465Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ketian Zhang
- Harris School of Public Policy Studies, 199616University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Serra-Negra JM, Paiva SM, Baptista AS, Cruz AJS, Pinho T, Abreu MH. Cyberchondria and Associated Factors Among Brazilian and Portuguese Dentists. ACTA ODONTOLOGICA LATINOAMERICANA : AOL 2022; 35:45-50. [PMID: 35700541 DOI: 10.54589/aol.35/1/45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cyberchondria is a psychopathological behavior that affects people who compulsively consult the internet, by searching the symptoms of different pathologies from which they believe they are suffering, and when influenced by what they read, are sure they have some of these diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the cyberchondria level and associated factors among Brazilian and Portuguese dentists. A total 597 Brazilian and Portuguese dentists participated in this cross-sectional study. They were contacted via WhatsApp and asked to complete an online questionnaire on the Google Forms platform, from January 17 to 31, 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sociodemographic information was collected and cyberchondria was measured using the Portuguese language version of the Cyberchondria Severity Scale. Binary logistic regression models were used to estimate the unadjusted and adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for theassociationofcyberchondria and covariates. Each covariate was individually included in the regression model, and the unadjusted OR (95% CI) was estimated. Most participants were Brazilian (62.8%), women (75.5%), married (60.5%) and with children (55.6%). Average age was 42.1 years (+ 12.5). In the final model, it was found that with each increase of one year in age, the chance of a high level of cyberchondria decreased (OR=0.97; 95% CI 0.95-0.98). Brazilian dentists were 1.85 times more likely (95% CI 1.25-2.75) to have a high level of cyberchondria than Portuguese dentists. Women were 1.62 times more likely (95% CI 1.07-2.44) to have a high level of cyberchondria than men. It was concluded that young age, Brazilian nationality, and female gender favored the high level of cyberchondria among the participants in this sample during COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junia Maria Serra-Negra
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Odontologia, Departamento de Saúde Bucal da Criança, Brasil.
| | - Saul M Paiva
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Odontologia, Departamento de Saúde Bucal da Criança, Brasil
| | - Ana Sofia Baptista
- Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário, Departamento de Medicina Dentária, Portugal
| | - Alex Junio S Cruz
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Odontologia, Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Brasil
| | - Teresa Pinho
- Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário, Departamento de Medicina Dentária, Portugal
| | - Mauro Henrique Abreu
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Odontologia, Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Brasil
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15
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Social Capital Mediates the Association between the ICT Usage and Well-Being of Older People in Japan: Implication for a New Design Paradigm. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14074148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
As the population ages, the question of how to prevent isolation among older people and increase their well-being becomes a social issue. It has often been argued that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) usage can be a solution to these challenges, but empirical studies have not shown consistent results. Moreover, there are even fewer studies targeting older people in Japan, which is the most aging country in the world. Therefore, using the psychological comprehensive data of Japanese people aged 60 and over recorded in World Values Survey Wave 7, we conducted a study to clarify the relationship between the ICT usage, social capital, and well-being of older people to make a meaningful contribution to policymakers and the scientific community. As a result of the analysis, it was shown that ICT usage indirectly enhances well-being by increasing social capital. This indicates that for older people, ICT usage does not have a large effect on enhancing well-being, but becomes sufficiently large only through the improvement of social capital. The pros and cons of such modern communication means should be utilized as a reference when considering the development of future communication means and a human coach—a person who supports the use of communication means by older people. In other words, to think about the spread of communication means to community-dwelling older people in the future, it is always necessary to think about technology usage emphasizing the relationship between older people and society.
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16
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The Impact of Internet Use on Perception of the Poor–Rich Gap: Empirical Evidence from China. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14063488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The advancement of Internet technology has provided a great impetus to alleviate poverty and promote economic progress. However, studies on the negative impact that the development of the Internet may have on individual perceptions are still rare. This paper uses data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) in 2018 to construct multiple econometric models to empirically study the impact of Internet use (ITU) on the perception of the poor–rich gap (PPRG) and its mechanism in China. The instrumental variable (IV) model and Heckman model are used to solve potential endogenous problems. The research found that ITU has aggravated the PPRG of residents, and the test results are still robust after considering various endogenous sources. Additional analysis shows that the degree of dependence on the Internet is one of the transmission mechanisms of ITU on the impact of the PPRG, and its mediating effect accounts for 32.12% of the total effect. Another test result of the impact mechanism shows that the Internet media expands the reference group of residents through virtual areas and aggravates the PPRG of residents. Some test results from the perspective of heterogeneity show that: the effect of urban residents’ ITU on PPRG is higher than that of rural residents. ITU of residents in economically developed areas has a significantly higher effect on the PPRG than residents in economically underdeveloped areas. The impact on ITU by residents of different age groups on aggravating the PPRG show an obvious increasing linear law. Our research provides an ITU interpretation path for the impact of PPRG from sociological theory and provides a new entry point for the impact of the Internet and subjective well-being.
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17
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Ye X, Wang Z, Li D. Effects of Internet Use on Well-Being in Rural China. JOURNAL OF GLOBAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/jgim.309083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Given the rapid development of internet and dramatic change it has brought to human life, this study examines the effect of internet use on well-being in rural China. Findings indicate that the act of engaging with internet and the increase in its usage frequency both have significant positive effects on well-being in rural China, whereas the effect attenuates with the increase of usage frequency. These results imply that internet use features diminishing marginal returns. In the sub-groups divided by education and age, the higher educated and the younger groups use internet more frequently. However, internet use significantly promotes well-being of the lower educated, the middle-aged and the elderly groups, and its effect on the higher educated and the younger groups is insignificant. A further analysis uncovers that internet use increase well-being through relieving loneliness. This study affirms the benefits of internet in rural China, but obsessive internet use could offset the benefits. Thus, the implication of using internet appropriately are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Ye
- Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, China
| | - Ding Li
- Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, China
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18
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Internet-Based Medical Service Use and Eudaimonic Well-Being of Urban Older Adults: A Peer Support and Technology Acceptance Model. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212062. [PMID: 34831817 PMCID: PMC8618015 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Currently, internet services are developing rapidly, and the relationship between specific types of internet services and the well-being of older adults is still unclear. This study took a total of 353 urban older adults aged 60 years and above as research objects to explore the impact of the use behavior toward internet-based medical services (IBMS) on their well-being through an online questionnaire. This study integrated well-being theory and peer support theory, constructed an extended structural equation model of technology acceptance based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), and analyzed the variable path relationship. The results confirm the proposed model: older adults improved their eudaimonic well-being through using IBMS; perceived usefulness significantly affected the older adults’ attitudes towards IBMS; perceived ease of use significantly affected the use of IBMS through mediation; peer support significantly affected older adults’ attitudes, willingness, actual use, and well-being in the process. This study proposes that facilitating IBMS use for older adults in the development and design of internet technology programs should be considered in order to provide them with benefits. Moreover, paying attention to peer support among older adults plays an important role in the acceptance of new technologies and improving their well-being. The “peer support” of this study expanded and contributed to the research on the impact on older adults’ well-being and the construction of a technology acceptance model. The peer support in this study extended the influence factor of eudaimonic well-being and contributed to the further development of the TAM.
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