Long-Term Effects of New Deal Work Relief on Late Life Depression
Author Information
Author(s): Modrek Sepideh, Rehkopf David
Primary Institution: San Francisco State University
Hypothesis
Childhood exposure to local area New Deal emergency employment work relief activity is associated with lower depressive symptoms in late life.
Conclusion
Children exposed to higher levels of New Deal work relief had significantly lower depressive symptoms in older age.
Supporting Evidence
- Children exposed to moderate or high levels of work relief had 14-18% lower depressive symptom scores at ages 72-74.
- The findings were consistent across various measures of late-life depressive symptoms.
- The study suggests that economic policies can have long-term positive impacts on mental health.
Takeaway
If kids had jobs in their neighborhoods during tough times, they might feel happier when they grow up.
Methodology
The study used data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study linked to the 1940 census to analyze the impact of childhood exposure to New Deal work relief on depressive symptoms in late life.
Participant Demographics
Participants were individuals from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study, with a focus on those exposed to New Deal work relief during childhood.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website