Middle-aged sandwich generation: the utilization of social capital in coping with the caring demands and threats to mental health

TL;DR

This study examines how middle-aged individuals juggling care for children and parents use social support to manage stress and avoid burnout.

Contribution

It highlights the role of bonding, bridging, and linking social capital in coping within the context of traditional Chinese family values.

Findings

Participants faced time management issues, physical exhaustion, and caregiver burnout.

Support primarily came from family members and religious groups, with limited help from peers and neighborhoods.

Unequal government allocation of childcare and long-term care resources was a concern.

Abstract

The sandwich generation refers to individuals who simultaneously care for children and parents or grandparents. This study explores how they utilize social capital at various levels to manage their responsibilities.

Ten participants, aged 35–50, who care for both children and older family members, were interviewed. The data was analyzed thematically and deductively coded based on bonding, bridging, and linking social capital.

The study found that the sandwich generation faces time management issues, physical exhaustion, stress, and caregiver burnout. The findings revealed that significant support comes from parents, in-laws, and maids, while broader support from siblings, peers, and neighborhoods is limited. Religious groups were identified as a key source of emotional and spiritual support. Participants valued pre-nursery and kindergarten services but expressed concerns about the government’s unequal allocation of childcare and long-term care resources. The key role of family over government support reflects traditional Chinese family values and social policies.

The study concludes with recommendations for future research and policy development.