Presentation Title

Filial Piety: New Perspectives on Elder Care in China

Location

Council Chambers

Start Date

11-10-2013 10:00 AM

End Date

11-10-2013 12:00 PM

Abstract

China has the largest net aging population in the world along with a rapid aging pace. Historically, the family has been the source of support and care for their elders, and filial piety has been a fundamental tenet in Chinese culture. However, increased geographic mobility and reduced family size have made more adult children unavailable for elder care. Very little empirical research has examined the attitudes and perspectives among college students in China towards older adults and elderly care.

A mixed method approach was used with both quantitative and qualitative data collection. A convenience sample (N= 380) was collected through anonymous, self-administered survey questionnaires. In addition three one-hour long English focus groups were conducted. Survey data were inputted and analyzed using SPSS. Focus groups were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis methods.

Quantitative data reported that the ASD scores are neutral, and indicate there are gender differences in perspectives on future elderly care for their parents. Qualitative data suggests filial piety, although considered very important and defined in traditional terms of obey, respect and duty, may have new interpretations of how it is practiced for the younger generation. In addition, how to care for elder parents reflect these new interpretations by including possibilities of hired and institutional care.

Findings from this study provide important and meaningful information for gerontological educators, service providers, and policy makers. With the one-child policy in place for a generation, China is facing an ever-growing need for trained professional service providers such as social workers to address the needs of older adults.

Comments

Presentation is included in Panel 1: Changing Family Relations in Contemporary East Asia

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Oct 11th, 10:00 AM Oct 11th, 12:00 PM

Filial Piety: New Perspectives on Elder Care in China

Council Chambers

China has the largest net aging population in the world along with a rapid aging pace. Historically, the family has been the source of support and care for their elders, and filial piety has been a fundamental tenet in Chinese culture. However, increased geographic mobility and reduced family size have made more adult children unavailable for elder care. Very little empirical research has examined the attitudes and perspectives among college students in China towards older adults and elderly care.

A mixed method approach was used with both quantitative and qualitative data collection. A convenience sample (N= 380) was collected through anonymous, self-administered survey questionnaires. In addition three one-hour long English focus groups were conducted. Survey data were inputted and analyzed using SPSS. Focus groups were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis methods.

Quantitative data reported that the ASD scores are neutral, and indicate there are gender differences in perspectives on future elderly care for their parents. Qualitative data suggests filial piety, although considered very important and defined in traditional terms of obey, respect and duty, may have new interpretations of how it is practiced for the younger generation. In addition, how to care for elder parents reflect these new interpretations by including possibilities of hired and institutional care.

Findings from this study provide important and meaningful information for gerontological educators, service providers, and policy makers. With the one-child policy in place for a generation, China is facing an ever-growing need for trained professional service providers such as social workers to address the needs of older adults.