Empathy and Close Social Ties in Late Life.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Older adults with stronger social ties often lead longer, healthier, and happier lives, but these ties may differ based on older adults' ability to share and understand others' emotions (i.e., empathy). This study asked how empathy was associated with the way that older adults construct and engage in their social worlds.

Method

We drew on the Daily Experiences and Well-being Study to examine how older adults' empathy was associated with the structure (e.g., network size and contact), function (e.g., support), and quality (e.g., affection and conflict) of their close social ties. Participants (N = 333) self-rated empathy and listed their social partners using three concentric convoy circles.

Results

Empathy was not associated with older adults' social networ

SUBMITTER: Huo M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7489087 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature