Interdisciplinary Analysis of Theories Related to Mental Health in Aging
School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| Abstract: | Against the backdrop of entering the "era of longevity," mental health in aging is undoubtedly a very important research topic, yet the sociological perspective is often excluded from studies on mental health in aging. By reviewing the successful aging theory, the sociology of mental health, and the recent developments in these theoretical frameworks, we can find that the dialogue between different theoretical schools is one of the most critical driving forces for the development of theories in the field of mental health in aging. Using the core concept of the life course theory, the classic successful aging theory based on a life course perspective has been able to address sharp criticisms and gain greater vitality. The stress process theory has integrated the life course perspective, sparking academic interest in topics related to mental health in aging, such as early-life adversity, trauma, accumulative effects, timing, and trajectories. The collision of ideas between different disciplines continuously sparks new advancements. Recent findings in the field of biology have prompted researchers of successful aging theory to recognize the value of biomarkers and genetic information. The relationship between biological vulnerability factors and social factors, as well as their impact on mental health in later life, has also become a key area of interest for sociologists. |
| Keywords: | Mental Health in Aging; Interdisciplinary Analysis; Theoretical Context; Successful Aging |
| DOI: | 10.57237/j.ssrf.2024.06.003 |
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Received: 17 November 2024
Accepted: 27 December 2024
Published Online: 9 January 2025
Funding
| 1. | 2024福建省社会科学基金青年项目 (项目编号: FJ2024C165) |
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