Abstract
We examine pathways between indicators of fertility tempo/quantum and depressive symptoms among parents aged 55+ with at least two children, using three waves of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Using standard regression approaches and path analysis within the structural equation framework, we also investigate whether fertility trajectories mediated the association between childhood disadvantage and later-life depression. Results provide limited support for direct influences of fertility trajectories on depression, but indicate indirect linkages for both women and men. Associations are mediated by partnership history, social support, wealth, later-life smoking, and functional limitation. Associations between childhood disadvantage and later-life depression are partially mediated by fertility stressors. Results confirm the influence of life course experiences on depression at older ages and demonstrate the interlinked role of family and other life course pathways on later-life well-being.
Highlights
Depression and depressive symptoms in mid- and later life are a major cause of poor health and contribute substantially to the overall burden of disease (Wittchen et al 2011)
Using standard regression approaches and path analysis within the structural equation framework, we investigate whether fertility trajectories mediated the association between childhood disadvantage and later-life depression
This paper examined associations between fertility experiences and risks of depression in later life using longitudinal data for people aged 55+ in England
Summary
ISSN: 0032-4728 (Print) 1477-4747 (Online) Journal homepage: https://www.tandfonline.com/loi/rpst. Using standard regression approaches and path analysis within the structural equation framework, we investigate whether fertility trajectories mediated the association between childhood disadvantage and later-life depression. Results provide limited support for direct influences of fertility trajectories on depression, but indicate indirect linkages for both women and men. Associations are mediated by partnership history, social support, wealth, later-life smoking, and functional limitation. Associations between childhood disadvantage and later-life depression are partially mediated by fertility stressors.
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