Longitudinal correlation between poverty and mental health trajectories among low-income populations in China: a group-based dual trajectory model analysis

ABSTRACT

This study aims to explore the long-term correlations between poverty and depression among low-income Chinese people. We utilise data from the China Family Panel Study 2010–2018. A group-based dual trajectory model was employed to examine the relationship between poverty and depression trajectories. The results indicate a bi-directional relationship between the distribution of poverty and depression. Moreover, there is a diversity of dynamics associated with poverty and depression. Furthermore, a stronger influence of depression on poverty changes in the interactive relationship. These findings suggest the need to develop targeted policy programmes based on the characteristics of poverty and depression trajectory patterns.

KEYWORDS:

• Low-income populations
• poverty trajectory
• depression trajectory
• group-based dual trajectory model

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Authors’ contributions

All authors made significant contributions to the conception or design of the study, as well as the processing and interpretation of data. Additionally, all authors participated in the critical review and revision of the manuscript and approved the final version. Furthermore, all authors have agreed to take responsibility for all aspects of the work.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the General Project of Philosophy and Social Science Research in Colleges and Universities of Jiangsu Province [2022SJYB0950] and the Jiangnan University Youth Research Fund [JUSRP12071].

Notes on contributors

Siyuan Guo

Siyuan Guo, she is a PhD candidate in the Department of Social Welfare at Jeonbuk National University. Her research interests include poverty issues, mental health, health inequalities, and social welfare policy.

Sheng Sun

Sheng Sun, he is an Assistant Professor in the Department of sociology at Jiangnan University. His research interests include life course and health inequalities, public health, ageing and health, and welfare policy.

Sang-Rok Lee

Sang-Rok Lee, he is a Professor in the Department of Social Welfare at Jeonbuk National University. His research interests include poverty issues, poverty policy, income security systems, welfare policy, welfare attitude, and welfare state.