Huo M, Fuentecilla JL, Birditt KS, Fingerman KL. Empathy and Close Social Ties in Late Life.
J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021;
75:1648-1657. [PMID:
30982884 DOI:
10.1093/geronb/gbz044]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Older adults with stronger social ties often lead longer, healthier, and happier lives, but these ties may differ based on older adults' ability to share and understand others' emotions (i.e., empathy). This study asked how empathy was associated with the way that older adults construct and engage in their social worlds.
METHOD
We drew on the Daily Experiences and Well-being Study to examine how older adults' empathy was associated with the structure (e.g., network size and contact), function (e.g., support), and quality (e.g., affection and conflict) of their close social ties. Participants (N = 333) self-rated empathy and listed their social partners using three concentric convoy circles.
RESULTS
Empathy was not associated with older adults' social network structure, but more empathic older adults exchanged support with more social partners and reported greater affection for their social partners. We did not observe a significant link between older adults' empathy and conflict with social partners.
DISCUSSION
Examining empathy advances our understanding of individual differences in older adults' close social ties. This study suggests that empathy may play a promising role with regard to promoting older adults' social experiences and strengthening their close ties.
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