Social networks and depressive symptoms of older only-child parents in China

被引:0
|
作者
Tang, Dan [1 ]
Li, Xingyu [1 ]
Fan, Bolin [2 ]
Lin, Zhiyong [3 ]
机构
[1] Renmin Univ China, Populat Dev Studies Ctr, 59 Zhongguancun St, Beijing 100872, Peoples R China
[2] Univ Hong Kong, Dept Social Work & Social Adm, Pok Fu Lam Rd,Cent & Western, Hong Kong 999077, Peoples R China
[3] Univ Texas San Antonio, Dept Sociol, San Antonio, TX USA
关键词
Only-child parent; Depressive symptoms; Social networks; Older adult; NEGATIVE LIFE EVENTS; LIVING ARRANGEMENTS; MENTAL-HEALTH; ADULTS; SUPPORT; WOMEN; CONSEQUENCES; SUBSTITUTION; QUALITY; IMPACT;
D O I
10.1007/s42379-025-00180-z
中图分类号
C921 [人口统计学];
学科分类号
摘要
This study examines the relationships between social networks and depressive symptoms among Chinese only-child parents, who were affected by China's strict family planning policy, during the later stages of their lives. Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Aging Society Survey (2018, N = 4,673) were used to investigate the social networks and depressive symptoms of older only-child parents and compare them to those of multiple-child parents. The study explores the associations between only-child parent status and depressive symptoms, as well as the moderating effects of social networks. Only-child parents have fewer family ties and fewer depressive symptoms compared with multiple-child parents, with no significant difference observed in friendship ties. Both family and friendship ties were associated with fewer depressive symptoms among both groups, although family ties exerted a greater impact on the depressive symptoms of only-child parents. In the age-group robustness test, the above results were found only in the young-old group (under 75 years old). In terms of depressive symptoms, the only child can provide sufficient support for older parents. However, given the fragility of the only-child family structure, society should be aware of and prepare for the future risks facing only-child parents as they advance in age.
引用
收藏
页码:89 / 108
页数:20
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