Abstract
ObjectivesUniversity students in general face multiple challenges, which may affect their levels of perceived stress and life satisfaction. Chinese students currently face specific strains due to the One-Child Policy (OCP). The aim of this study was to assess (1) whether the levels of perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction are associated with only-child (OC) status after controlling for demographic and socio-economic characteristics and (2) whether these associations differ between Chinese and international students.Materials and MethodsA cross-sectional health survey based on a self-administrated standardised questionnaire was conducted among 1,843 (1,543 Chinese, 300 international) students at two Chinese universities in 2010–2011. Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) and Stock and Kraemer’s Studying-related Life Satisfaction Scale were used to measure perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations of OC status with perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction by sex for Chinese students and international students separately.ResultsThe Chinese non-only-children (NOCs) were more likely to come from small cities. Multivariable regression models indicate that the Chinese NOCs were more stressed than OCs (OR = 1.39, 1.11–1.74) with a stronger association in men (OR = 1.48, 1.08–2.02) than women (OR = 1.26, 0.89–1.77). NOCs were also more dissatisfied than their OC fellows in the Chinese subsample (OR = 1.37, 1.09–1.73). Among international students, no associations between OC status and perceived stress or studying-related life satisfaction were found.ConclusionsTo promote equality between OCs and NOCs at Chinese universities, the causes of more stress and less studying-related life satisfaction among NOCs compared to OCs need further exploration.
Highlights
University students in general are vulnerable to multiple stressors as a result of the challenges they face during their studies
To promote equality between OCs and NOCs at Chinese universities, the causes of more stress and less studying-related life satisfaction among NOCs compared to OCs need further exploration
Significant differences were observed in the following aspects between Chinese and international students: Chinese students were slightly younger, more satisfied with social support received in crisis situations and performed less physical activity than international students
Summary
University students in general are vulnerable to multiple stressors as a result of the challenges they face during their studies. These diverse challenges can include establishing self-reliance, maintaining a good level of academic achievement, and managing the basic demands of everyday life [1, 2]. The current generation of Chinese university students has to cope with a specific situation. They often do not have siblings due to the One-Child Policy (OCP) introduced in 1979 to reduce China’s population growth. Some families can have another child, depending on their location, firstborn’s sex, parental professions, and duration after the birth of the firstborn [10]
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