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Psychological Well-Being of Only Children: Evidence from the One-Child Policy

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Listed:
  • Park Albert

    (Department of Economics and Division of Social Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Wu Lingwei

    (School of Economics, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of International Finance and Economics, Shanghai, China)

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of growing up as an only child on individual psychological well-being. Using national survey data – the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), we employ the Kessler-6 scale to measure psychological well-being. Considering family fertility decisions are made endogenously, we use the instrumental variable (IV) strategy using both regional and cohort variations generated by the One-Child Policy in China. Our results show that being an only child as a result of the One-Child Policy is associated with a higher level of psychological distress.

Suggested Citation

  • Park Albert & Wu Lingwei, 2025. "Psychological Well-Being of Only Children: Evidence from the One-Child Policy," The B.E. Journal of Economic Analysis & Policy, De Gruyter, vol. 25(3), pages 745-769.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:bejeap:v:25:y:2025:i:3:p:745-769:n:1006
    DOI: 10.1515/bejeap-2024-0268
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being

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