Reciprocal Family Assistance Across Generations and Its Influence on Agricultural Households' Decisions to Vacate Village Dwellings: Insights from East Henan Region, PRC

Rural transformation in China has intensified the restructuring of village settlements, particularly in regions experiencing rapid urbanization and demographic shifts. One emerging phenomenon is the gradual withdrawal of agricultural households from traditional rural homesteads. While economic and policy drivers have been widely examined, the role of intra-family dynamics, especially reciprocal intergenerational support, remains underexplored. This study investigates how bidirectional exchanges between older and younger family members influence farmers’ decisions to vacate rural residences in the East Henan region of China. Drawing on mixed-methods research involving household surveys, in-depth interviews, and econometric modeling, the study examines the interplay between financial transfers, caregiving responsibilities, and emotional support within family systems.

The findings reveal that intergenerational reciprocity significantly shapes housing decisions. Households receiving upward support from younger members demonstrate a higher propensity to relocate, particularly when urban employment opportunities are accessible. Conversely, strong downward caregiving obligations often anchor elderly farmers to rural homesteads, reducing relocation willingness. The study also highlights the mediating role of social norms and cultural expectations in reinforcing familial obligations, which in turn influence mobility decisions. The results contribute to a more nuanced understanding of rural transition processes by integrating socio-cultural dimensions into economic decision-making frameworks. Policy implications emphasize the need for integrated rural-urban welfare systems that address family-based dependencies and support sustainable housing reforms.