The relationship between Chinese cultural beliefs about adversity and psychological adjustment in Chinese families with economic disadvantage

Abstract

The relationship between Chinese beliefs about adversity and psychological well-being was studied in 229 economically disadvantaged Chinese families. Results showed that adolescents with stronger endorsement of positive Chinese beliefs about adversity generally displayed better psychological well-being and school adjustment and less problem behavior. Maternal endorsement, but not paternal endorsement, of Chinese beliefs about adversity was related to adolescent adjustment. Parental endorsement, but not adolescent children’s endorsement of Chinese beliefs about adversity, was related to parent’s psychological adjustment. The strengths of association between endorsement of Chinese beliefs about adversity and psychological well-being were similar in fathers, mothers, and adolescent children samples. No significant differences were found among fathers, mothers, and adolescent children on their endorsement of Chinese beliefs about adversity.