Perceived discrimination, integration, depression and behavioral problems among Chinese migrant children: Examining the moderating role of migration pattern in the rural-urban dual system.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of perceived discrimination on children's depression and behavioral problems via the mediator of integration among Chinese migrant children. Rural-urban differences in the proposed relationships are also examined. The sample included 484 migrant children (Mean age=11.65years; 52.9% girls), which was collected through multi-stage cluster random sampling in Kunming, Southwest China. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was adopted for data analysis. Results indicate that perceived discrimination reduces the integration of Chinese migrant children, which in turn, leads to their higher levels of depression and more behavioral problems. The multi-group analysis on rural-urban differences reveals that the effects of discrimination on depression and behavioral problems are significant among rural-urban migrants but not among urban-urban ones. This study contributes to current knowledge by revealing the mechanisms among perceived discrimination, integration, depression and behavioral problems of Chinese migrant children. The migration pattern differences in terms of their depression and behavioral problems are also highlighted.