Intergenerational relations and life satisfaction among older women in Taiwan

Ju Ping Lin*, Tse Fan Chang, Chiu Hua Huang

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

40 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between intergenerational relations and life satisfaction among older women (aged 55 years and older) in Taiwan. According to intergenerational solidarity theory, intergenerational relations are dictated by various components: living arrangements, intergenerational support exchange, intergenerational affection, and intergenerational norms. Data were obtained from the 2006 Taiwan Social Change Survey (N= 281). The main results show that intergenerational relations have a significant effect on the life satisfaction of older women. Western studies have found that playing the giver's role increases the life satisfaction of older people. However, the present study found that being mainly a recipient of support from adult children is related to a higher level of life satisfaction among older Taiwanese women. This study also underscores the importance of the emotional component in intergenerational relations to the well-being of older people. In Taiwan, stronger emotional bonds with adult children increases older women's life satisfaction.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)S47-S58
JournalInternational Journal of Social Welfare
Volume20
Issue numberSUPPL. 1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011 Oct

Keywords

  • Filial norms
  • Intergenerational relations
  • Intergenerational support
  • Life satisfaction
  • Older women
  • Taiwan

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Sociology and Political Science

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