Kin to strain: longitudinal impacts of family size on mental health among aging South Africans

ObjectivesThis study examines the longitudinal relationship between the number of children and psychological well-being, specifically depressive symptoms and subjective well-being (SWB), among older adults in rural South Africa. Grounded in life course theory and the family stress model, it explores whether larger family sizes offer protection or constitute psychological stressors in later life, with attention to gender differences.MethodsData were drawn from 3 waves (2014–2015, 2018–2019, and 2021–2022) of the Health and Aging in Africa: A Longitudinal Study of an INDEPTH Community in South Africa, including 2,775 adults aged 60+. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 8-item for the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression scale; SWB was measured using a single-item life satisfaction scale. Cross-lagged panel structural equation modeling with multigroup analysis by gender-tested reciprocal pathways, adjusting for key sociodemographic covariates.ResultsA higher number of children was significantly associated with increased depressive symptoms (β = 0.14, p = .004) and reduced SWB (β = –0.12, p = .008) over time. Gender-stratified models showed stronger effects among women. Depressive symptoms and SWB exhibited strong temporal stability and reciprocal influence across waves. The model-explained variance was modest (R2 range = 0.002–0.024), suggesting additional, unmeasured factors.DiscussionContrary to cultural expectations, large families may increase psychological vulnerability in old age, especially for women. We introduce the Intergenerational Support Dissonance framework to explain how unmet expectations of filial support can erode well-being. Findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive aging policies and alternative support systems in sub-Saharan Africa.