Psychological Drivers and Emotional Well-being: The Logic of Practice and Institutional Innovation for Young Returnees Participating in Rural Governance
Li LiAbstract
Objective
This study explores the psychological and emotional mechanisms, including risks of anxiety, mood disorders, and negative emotional stress, that drive young returnees' participation in rural governance amid institutional tensions. It aims to assess the effectiveness of their strategic actions and propose institutional innovations that support both governance outcomes and participants' psychological well-being.
Subjects and Methods
A longitudinal mixed-methods study tracked 95 young returnees in village governance over 24 months. Data collection included in-depth interviews, observation, psychological scales measuring emotional commitment, resilience, anxiety (GAD-7), and perceived stress (PSS), alongside governance performance audits. Quantitative and qualitative analyses examined relationships between psychological drivers, strategic action, and mental health.
Results
Strong emotional attachment (β = 0.69, p<0.01) and a generational mission were primary drivers. Strategic action mediated institutional tensions, linking to 30% higher perceived governance efficiency. However, 40% of participants reported high emotional exhaustion and anxiety symptoms. Peer support networks significantly mitigated this distress. Higher psychological well-being correlated with more sustainable initiatives (r = 0.58, p<0.05), while elevated stress predicted higher attrition risk.
Conclusions
While powered by deep psychological drivers, the participation of young returnees entails significant emotional labor, posing risks of anxiety and burnout. Institutional innovation must formally recognize and support this labor through structured mental health resources and peer support to safeguard well-being and ensure sustainable rural revitalization.
Corresponding Author
Li Li, Taizhou Vocational College of Science &Technology, School of Accounting & Finance, Zhejiang, Taizhou, 318020, China.