Changes In Family Structure Research Articles

Learning to care on one's own: Chinese children's caregivers' reflections on family care

AbstractBackgroundThe past few decades have witnessed drastic changes in family structures and the provision of care within the family in China.ObjectiveThe current study investigated how familial caregivers of children (N = 30, Mage = 41.67, SD = 11.32) living in one of the largest urban centers in China learned and taught how to care within the family.MethodNine focus groups were conducted to collect data, and thematic analysis was adopted to analyze the data.ResultsTwo main themes were found: (a) learning to care on one's own and (b) the importance of encouraging one to want to care. The findings indicate that Chinese caregivers received limited direct instruction in learning how to care and were often faced with the challenge of having to self‐teach care. Meanwhile, when teaching care, caregivers focused on the motivation to care (e.g., filial piety) as an important element for learning to practice care.ConclusionThese findings highlight considerations of motivation of care often not mentioned in the Western literature while also indicating the need of society to support teaching and learning the practice of care within the family.ImplicationsThis study highlights the importance of cultural considerations when designing intervention programs to help individuals to develop the ability to care and provides insights exploring how school‐family partnership promotes children's ability to be caring.

Partnership quality and maternal depressive symptoms in the transition to parenthood: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundPregnancy and childbirth are critical life events which lead to significant changes in family structures and roles, thus having a substantial impact on partner relationship and maternal wellbeing. A dysfunctional partnership during this critical time of life has been associated with maternal depressiveness. However, sub-components of partnership quality and the causal relation with maternal symptoms of depression in the perinatal period have been sparsely studied so far. The current study aims to longitudinally assess the course of relationship quality and its sub-components from pregnancy to postpartum and to test a potential causal association with maternal symptoms of depression in the perinatal period.MethodsDiffering from previous studies, partnership quality and symptoms of depression have been assessed prospectively and longitudinally from an early stage of pregnancy (second trimester) until six months postpartum. Cross-lagged panel models were applied to investigate a potential causal relationship between partnership quality and maternal depressive symptoms.ResultsRelationship quality decreased significantly during the transition to parenthood (p < .05) with the steepest decline referring to tenderness (p < .001). We also found a substantial association of relationship quality and maternal depressiveness, but no indication for a clear causal direction of this association.ConclusionsOur results suggest that relationship quality and maternal depressiveness are substantially related in the perinatal period, thus pointing to the need of early prevention and intervention programs for peripartum women and their partners to prevent adverse outcome for the couple and the family.

Changes in Family Structure and Increasing Care Gaps in the United States, 2015–2050

Research on caregiving in the United States has not clearly identified the scope of the gap between care needed and care received and the changes implied by ongoing and anticipated shifts in family structure. This article examines the magnitude of contemporary gaps in care among older adults in the United States and how they are likely to evolve through 2050. We use data from the Health and Retirement Study (1998–2014) to estimate care gaps, operationalized as having difficulties with activities of daily living (ADLs) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) but not receiving care. We also estimate variation in care gaps by family structure. Then, we use data from demographic microsimulation to explore the implications of demographic and family changes for the evolution of care gaps. We establish that care gaps are common, with 13% and 5% of adults aged 50 or older reporting a care gap for ADLs and IADLs, respectively. Next, we find that adults with neither partners nor children have the highest care gap rates. Last, we project that the number of older adults with care gaps will increase by more than 30% between 2015 and 2050—twice the rate of population growth. These results provide a benchmark for understanding the scope of the potential problem and considering how care gaps can be filled.

Prevalence and factors associated with suicidal behaviors among domestic workers

BackgroundDue to urbanization and changes in family structure, the need for domestic workers has surged in many developing countries, including Rwanda. While being employed as a domestic worker presents financial benefits to many of them and their dependents, it also comes with risks and difficulties that might harm the domestic worker's mental health.AimThis study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with suicidal behaviors (i.e., suicidal ideations, plans, and attempt(s)) among domestic workers in Rwanda.MethodIn this cross-sectional study, data was captured from 884 domestic workers in Kigali, Rwanda. Suicidal ideation was measured using questions from the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), while suicide attempts and plans were measured using questions adopted from previous studies in the region. The methods used/plan to attempt suicide were also captured from individuals with a recent history of suicide plan/attempt(s). Three separate regression models were employed to ascertain the factors associated with suicidal behaviors.ResultsThe prevalence of past-year suicidal behaviors was 32.5% for suicidal ideations, 9.5% for suicide plans, and 7.8% for suicidal attempts. Being female and having a chronic medical illness were linked to a higher risk of participating in any form of suicidal behavior. Suicidal ideations were less likely to occur among those who attained secondary education. However, more years of working as a domestic worker were associated with an increased likelihood of suicidal ideations. Having more than five dependents at work increased the likelihood of experiencing suicidal plans or attempts among domestic workers. For those who attempted suicide, overdosing with medications/drugs was the most common method of attempting.ConclusionDomestic workers have prevalent suicide behaviors, especially among females and those with a chronic medical illness, more years of work experience, and those with many household members at work. Based on the present study, for domestic workers at risk, there is a critical need for focused mental health interventions and support networks in various sectors of the domestic labor force.

I am just a sister: a field study on sister as mother role from Guangdong, China.

This study aimed to explore sister-as-mother (jieximuzhi) roles in families after the implementation of China's universal two-child (quanmianerhai) and three-child policies (saihaizhengce). By conducting in-depth interviews with 10 sisters from Guangdong Province who fit the sister-motherhood profile, this study investigated their motivations for taking on maternal duties, the characteristics of sister-motherhood roles, and the impact of these roles on the sisters. The results revealed that in families with two or more children, sisters passively assume mother-like responsibilities primarily due to biological age differences and parental neglect, as well as their personal initiative to a certain extent. Additionally, the impact of sister-motherhood roles on sisters includes aspects such as time pressure, financial strain, and increased family intimacy. This study elucidated the phenomenon of sister-motherhood roles that emerge with changes in family structure in China while recognizing the diversity of women's roles within the family, appreciating the challenges faced by sisters in sister-motherhood roles, and providing insights into family labor division and education models.

Residential Hollowing and Its Drivers in Traditional Chinese Villages: Case Study of Wentang Village, Anhui Province

This study investigates the vacancy of traditional dwellings in Wentang Village, Qimen County, Anhui Province, China, and explores the underlying mechanisms driving the phenomenon of hollowing out. Through field surveys, interviews, and data analysis, the study reveals that the vacancy rate of traditional dwellings in Wentang Village is as high as 73%, compared to a significantly lower rate of 18.4% for newly built houses. The findings indicate that the hollowing out of the village is driven by factors such as urbanization, shifts in agricultural production methods, and changes in family structures. The study concludes that residents have experienced a phased migration from traditional dwellings to newly built houses and subsequently to urban residences. This transition is accompanied by increasing connections between villages and cities, as well as a decline in agricultural activities, which is pushing rural labor towards non-agricultural employment.

Prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity and their correlation with quality of life among elderly people living in old age homes of Kamrup, Assam

Background: The world population is rapidly ageing due to increased longevity and decreased mortality rates. The United Nations has declared 2021-2030 as the decade of healthy ageing. To attain this concept, the ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life (QoL) of elderly people by early detection and prevention of complications of non-communicable diseases. Changes in family structure and psycho-social values in today's era often compel the elderly to shift to old age homes (OAHs). Thus, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity in the elderly living in OAHs and their correlation with QoL. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the OAHs of Kamrup (M), Assam for twelve months. A sample of 300 elderly living in OAHs was selected and data was collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested schedule. All the respondents were screened and evaluated for diabetes mellitus, hypertension and obesity. Their quality of life was assessed using WHOQOL-BREF and correlated with blood pressure, blood sugar values and anthropometric indicators. Results: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and obesity were found to be 32.33%, 37% and 37.33% respectively. On spearman rank correlation the relation between blood pressure, random blood sugar values and anthropometric indicators with QoL was found to be significant. Conclusions: This high prevalence necessitates the adoption of various strategies to combat the burden, promote healthy lifestyle behaviour and provide proper care with counselling to improve the QoL in elderly.

Effect of Rural-to-Urban Migration on Family Dynamics in Mexico

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of rural-to-urban migration on family dynamics in Mexico. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Rural - urban migration in Mexico has significantly impacted family dynamics, leading to changes in family structure, economic conditions, and social relationships. Migrants often shift from extended family networks to more nuclear family setups, which can alter traditional family roles and support systems. While migration typically improves economic opportunities and educational access, it also introduces challenges such as emotional stress from separation, difficulties in maintaining family ties, and adapting to urban cultural norms. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Family systems theory, ecological systems theory &amp; social exchange theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the effect of rural-to-urban migration on family dynamics in Mexico. Practitioners should develop and implement targeted support programs that address the specific needs of migrant families, such as counseling services, role-specific training, and digital communication tools. Policymakers should create inclusive urban policies that address the challenges faced by migrant families, such as housing affordability, access to education, and social services.

SOSIOHISTORIS MASYARAKAT ARAB KUNO DAN MODERN PERSPEKTIF GUSTAVE LE BON

This article presents a comprehensive historical overview of the lives of ancient and modern Arab societies, focusing on their nature, customs, and the changes that took place in various aspects of their lives. Through research into historical sources such as Gustave Le Bon's "Hadorotul Arab" and various relevant documentation, this article aims to provide a better understanding of the development of Arab civilization and the changes that occurred in Arab society over time. The review covers the social, economic, cultural and lifestyle aspects of Arab society in the past and present. The result of this study is that in ancient times, Arab societies were characterized by a relatively isolated and conservative nature. They lived in villages and tribes, with strong customs and traditional values. The social and economic aspects of ancient Arab society were influenced by their nomadic life and reliance on trade and livestock. However, as times changed, modern Arab society underwent a significant transformation. Arab cities became centers of economic and cultural activity, with increasingly open lifestyles and adaptation to outside influences. Social, economic and political changes have affected their daily lives, with changes in family structure, gender roles, education and employment. Modern Arab societies are also faced with challenges and changes due to globalization and modernization. They interact with new technologies and have greater access to information. Islam remains a strong cornerstone in the lives of Arab societies, with values such as modesty, justice and social care continuing to be upheld. However, religious interpretations and practices may vary among Arab societies, depending on the historical, cultural and environmental contexts in which they live .

Kodokushi as the Impact of Juggernaut of Modernity in Japanese Hyper-Aging Era

This article aims to describe the phenomenon of kodokushi (lonely death) among the elderly in Japan’s hyper-aging society as a negative impact of modernity. The research is analyzed through Anthony Giddens’ juggernaut of modernity perspective. The juggernaut is a walking machine (giant panzer) with extraordinary power, which we can steer to a certain extent but is also likely to lose control and tear itself to pieces. The results show that the phenomenon of lonely death (kodokushi) in the elderly reflects the uncontrollable juggernaut of modernity. Changes in family structure, the decline in birth rates, and cultural values that Japanese people hold cause kodokushi to remain high in Japan, especially among the elderly. Elderly people who live alone without traditional family or community ties live in social isolation. In the context of Giddens' Juggernaut of Modernity, the juggernaut has lost control. The phenomenon of kodokushi reflects complex challenges. Many older people experience isolation and loneliness due to a lack of strong social ties. Culturally, the ingrained culture of not wanting to inconvenience others (meiwaku wo kakutakunai) in Japanese society is a barrier to overcoming kodokushi. Addressing this phenomenon requires holistic efforts from the government, social institutions, and society. Although efforts to overcome kodokushi have been made, understanding and dealing with these complexities is crucial in Japan's hyper-aging society.

Responsibility of The Sidenreng Rappang Religious Court Class IB Based on Maqāṣid Al-Sharīʻah in Reducing The Rate of Marriage Dispensation

This research aims to evaluate the responsibility of Sidenreng Rappang Class IB Religious Court in reducing the number of marriage dispensations. The study employs a qualitative approach with a case study method, involving in-depth interviews with judges, court officials, as well as families and couples applying for marriage dispensation. The findings of the study are as follows: 1) From 2019 to 2023, there has been a significant shift in the number of marriage dispensation applications at Sidenreng Rappang Class IB Religious Court. This shift indicates a change in societal perspectives on marriage values and the challenges they face in meeting marriage requirements. 2) Factors such as changes in family structure, increased social mobility, and the evolution of religious and cultural norms may contribute to this trend. Additionally, difficulties in meeting marriage requirements can drive individuals to seek dispensation. 3) The responsibility of Sidenreng Rappang Class IB Religious Court is also critical in preventing child marriages. The court's role includes tightening the examination of administrative requirements, providing explanations, exploring the genuine intentions of the child, and considering the true benefits and harms of child marriage

Income Diversification of Rural Households in Bangladesh (2022-23)

This study examines income diversification and inequality among rural households in Bangladesh in 2022- 23, focusing on agricultural and non-agricultural sources of income. The analysis includes three districts: Chadpur, Sirajganj and Rajshahi, with specific economic activities. Data were collected through household surveys that collect income from agriculture, livestock, fishing, services and industries, and demographic data. Rajshahi has the highest income, due to high income from cattle, while Chadpur has the lowest. The results show significant income disparities, high levels of animal activity and differences in economic activity between regions. Larger houses in Rajshahi reflect changes in family structure. The main challenges identified were land fragmentation, climate change and limited access to finance and infrastructure. Recommendations for policy interventions include targeting support to low-income areas, investing in livestock development, promoting income diversification, improving infrastructure, strengthening climate livelihoods, expanding access to finance, the adoption of technology and the implementation of family planning programs. These strategies aim to reduce income inequality, improve economic opportunities and promote sustainable development in rural Bangladesh.

Changes in Family Structure during Shantytown Redevelopment and Their Correlation with the Living Space

Amid rapid urbanization, shantytown redevelopment profoundly transforms urban environments and catalyzes substantial changes in social, economic, and family structures. Yet, most previous studies have focused narrowly on the outcomes of single residential mobility events, overlooking the complex dynamics that unfold across the pre-redevelopment, during-redevelopment, and post-redevelopment phases. This study investigates changes in family structure and their correlation with living space throughout all three phases of shantytown redevelopment in Heze City, Shandong Province, China, from 2016 to 2023. Collecting data through a community survey, we gathered 1035 valid responses to analyze family structure and residential characteristics. Our analysis, which included Sankey diagrams and cross-lagged panel models (CLPM), revealed a predominant trend of large families fragmenting into smaller nuclear units and demonstrated a significant positive correlation between family structure complexity (FSC) and living space. Notably, the FSC from a previous phase had a significant influence on the living space of the following phase, indicating lagged effects where housing choices are influenced by prior family structure. Further comparisons across different housing types and tenures during the temporary phase highlighted diverse structural changes among families. These insights are crucial for policymakers to refine urban redevelopment strategies, better meet residents’ needs, and enhance the efficacy of policies.

Changing Family Structure in Rural Bangladesh: A Sociological Study in Chandpur District of Bangladesh

Changing Family Structure in Rural Bangladesh: A Sociological Study in Chandpur District of Bangladesh

Association between childhood family structure and longitudinal health behaviour changes in adulthood –Northern Finland birth cohort 1966 study

BackgroundChildhood family structure is considered to play a role in person’s health and welfare. This study investigated the relationships between the longitudinal changes of adult health behaviours and childhood family structure.MethodsFrom Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 questionnaires, we collected data on childhood family structure at the age of 14 (‘two-parent family’, ‘one parent not living at home/no information on father’, and ‘father or mother deceased’), and on health behaviours (smoking, alcohol consumption and physical activity status) at the ages of 31 and 46. We used the multinomial logistic regression model to estimate the unadjusted and adjusted associations between childhood family structures and the longitudinal changes between 31 and 46 years of health behaviours (four-category variables).ResultsOf the study sample (n = 5431; 55.5% females), 7.1% of the offspring were represented in the ‘One parent not living at home/no information on father’ subgroup, 6.3% in the ‘Father or mother deceased’ subgroup and 86.6% in the ‘Two-parent family’. ‘One parent not living at home/no information on father’ offspring were approximately twice as likely to smoke (adjusted OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.70–2.81) and heavily consume alcohol (adjusted OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.25–3.16) at both times in adulthood, relative to not smoking or not heavily consume alcohol, and compared with ‘two-parent family’ offspring. We found no statistically significant associations between childhood family structure and physical activity status changes in adulthood.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that the offspring of single-parent families in particular should be supported in early life to diminish their risk of unhealthy behaviours in adulthood.

The impact of digital finance on young People's health insurance participation decisions in China.

The digital finance era has reshaped young people's lifestyles, risk perceptions and insurance participation decisions. Modern youth have to constantly seek for rational social security support and construct individual protection barriers to adapt to new lifestyles and social structures. China's multi-tiered, universal health insurance system is urgently needed to satisfy young people's flexible needs and rational decision-making. Based on the micro data from 2011 ~ 2021 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS), this paper uses macro data from Digital Inclusive Finance Index (DIFI) matching to construct probit and m-logit model to assess the impact of the development of digital finance on Chinese youth whether or not to participate in health insurance, and how they choose the concrete type of health insurance. (1) Baseline regression results shows that digital finance has a significant positive effect on Chinese youth's health insurance participation decisions, and has different effects on choices within health insurance types. Strong support for the conclusions is provided by endogeneity and robustness tests. (2) The results of the heterogeneity analysis reveal that the marginal effect of digital finance on young people's health insurance decisions shows urban-rural differences, divergence in levels of self-rated health. (3) The mechanism analysis results suggest that there are two mechanism paths of digital finance on youth health insurance decisions: the household income effect and the subjective well-being effect, and two moderating effects: employment type and family structure. Highlighting the positive value that digital finance brings to the perception of youth insurance participation and the construction of social security systems, it needs to pay close attention to the dynamic changes in employment security and family structure through data, and explore the socio-psychological fluctuation and demand for social security among modern youth. To provide a way forward to achieve the integration of the health insurance system in China and solve the current problem of health insurance equity.

Phenomenon of Juvenile Delinquency In Purwokerto Village, Patebon District, Kendal Regency, Central Java

In Purwokerto Village, Patebon District, Kendal Regency, Central Java, the phenomenon of juvenile delinquency has increased rapidly in recent years. This delinquency includes various behaviors that violate social and legal rules, such as fighting, vandalism, drug abuse, and other violations. To determine the components that contribute to juvenile delinquency in the village and its impact on adolescents' social lives. This study uses a qualitative descriptive methodology. As a result of in-depth interviews and observations of participants, it was found that some of the main factors influencing adolescent deviant behavior are changes in family structure, negative peer influence, and lack of supervision and guidance from family and society. The purpose of this study is to provide practical recommendations to stop and handle juvenile delinquency in Purwokerto Village.

KID ZONE 커뮤니티 공간 디자인에 나타난 체화된 인지(Embodied Cognition)에 관한 연구

With the acceleration of urbanization and changes in family structures, Kid Zone community spaces have become crucial places connecting urban areas and communities, making them key issues in urban planning and community development. The purpose of this study is to analyze the characteristics of traditional Kid Zone community spaces as mediators for the healthy physical and mental development of children, based on the theory of embodied cognition. The research method involves conducting field investigations on traditional Kid Zone community spaces in the Xiamen region, followed by a case analysis of two selected communities that meet the criteria. The conclusion is that Kid Zone communities can be activated and improved from the perspective of embodied cognition space characteristics at three levels: embodiment, experience, and embeddedness.

К вопросу о педагогическом сопровождении формирования основ нравственной культуры дошкольника

The realities of the modern educational landscape are in constant interaction with complex challenges in the moral upbringing of preschool children, demanding a profound understanding of sociocultural and psychological aspects. Amid rapid technological advancements, changes in family structures, and cultural contexts, moral education and moral culture have become crucial aspects ensuring the holistic development of a child's personality. Educators are tasked with developing and implementing effective pedagogical support strategies that foster the formation of ethical values, social responsibility, and behavioral culture in children.Analyzing pedagogical strategies and methods in the realm of moral education for preschoolers allows the identification of optimal approaches that promote the development of their ethical values, responsibility, and social competence. These findings serve as the foundation for practical recommendations and methodological approaches aimed at enhancing the process of moral education in preschool institutions, encompassing innovative teaching methods, playful techniques, and pedagogical strategies that instill children with values and ethical skills. These methodologies, in our view, involve parental support and the engagement of the family institution, ensuring harmonious collaboration between educational institutions and parents in the moral development of preschoolers, instilling in them the necessary level of moral culture.The study of pedagogical support for the moral culture of preschoolers not only highlights the importance of shaping moral values in the early stages of life but also underscores the pivotal role of pedagogical strategies in this process. The development and implementation of innovative methodological approaches tailored to each child's individual needs represent an integral component in ensuring stable and harmonious moral development in educational settings. These research findings form the basis for further advancements in the field of education and upbringing, contributing to the establishment of ethical foundations for future generations.

Problems and design strategies for elderly housing

In article describes the choice of methods for caring for the elderly and the comfort of living spaces are closely linked to aging-friendly design. Aging leads to a decline in physical functions, resulting in numerous obstacles in life. Therefore, the article analyzes the activity of housing for the elderly, taking aging-friendly design as a starting point. The development status of elderly housing needs in management, safety, social interaction, respect, and other aspects are examined. Design strategies conducive to aging, in terms of lighting, ventilation, detailed environment, public spaces, and intellectual services, are proposed. This aims to enhance comfort, safety, and livability in housing for the elderly and ensure the quality of life for older people. With the rapid growth in demand for elderly care, the vacancy rate in elderly housing reaches 50%. Due to changes in social and family structure, most elderly people live alone and lack security. Elderly homes have become ideal places for them. Currently, most care facilities lack professional management, and the services provided are too uniform. This leads to a weak sense of identity, with resources remaining underutilized. For semi-disabled individuals, standardized conditions do not always meet their expectations for rehabilitation care, medical services, and spiritual comfort. Elderly people face behavioral disorders affecting sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. Declines in the five senses, including speech impairments, mobility difficulties, and physiological disorders, lead to psychological needs such as socialization and self-realization. Aging-friendly design is based on the physiological and psychological cognitive characteristics of elderly people. It aims to create an environment that meets their needs and ensures effective care for them. The aim of the study is to analyze the problems associated with designing buildings for the elderly and to determine strategies for creating a supportive design that considers the needs and characteristics of the target audience. The work is aimed at improving the comfort, safety, and quality of life of elderly people by providing them with an appropriate living environment.