Intergenerational work relationships and mental health among older workers in Japan

Investigating job satisfaction as a mediator

Abstract

  This study examined the effects of intergenerational work relationships on mental health, using workplace satisfaction as a mediator variable. Data were obtained from a survey of a random sample of 285 men and women aged between 60 and 69, residing in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Intergenerational relationships were measured using scales that captured ageism at work, the provision of support to younger generations, and negative interactions with younger generations.

  Mediation analysis indicated that no direct effect of ageism at work was significant for depression, and the indirect effect via work satisfaction was significant, i.e., those who experienced ageism in the workplace exhibited lower levels of workplace satisfaction, leading to greater tendencies toward depression. The provision of support to younger generations was correlated with higher levels of workplace satisfaction, but neither the direct nor indirect effects on depression were significant. Furthermore, it was confirmed that greater negative interactions with younger generations were correlated with higher depressive tendencies.