This study examined the Korean elderly's relatedness needs and its relationship with subjective well-being and depression. In study 1, the elderly's relatedness needs for their spouse, children, and friends were surveyed and classified. The most freq...
This study examined the Korean elderly's relatedness needs and its relationship with subjective well-being and depression. In study 1, the elderly's relatedness needs for their spouse, children, and friends were surveyed and classified. The most frequent relatedness needs in close relationships are spouse's 'love, consideration', children's 'telephone call', friend's 'contacting and meeting'. In study 2, firstly, based on the survey of study 1, the Elderly's relatedness needs questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire was composed of three factors: Respect and friendship from friends, Consideration and understanding from spouse, and Duty as a child and understanding for parents. Secondly, in the male elderly, subjective well-being and depression were the most significantly predicted by the difference between the relatedness needs for spouse and its satisfaction. On the other hand, in the female elderly, the most significant variable which influences subjective well-being and depression is the difference between the relatedness needs for children and its satisfaction. Based on the results, this study emphasized the necessity of research on Korean elderly's relatedness needs for successful aging.