Global Cultural Change and Child Anxiety: Analyzing Socialization Goals Over Three Decades in 70 Countries

On average, cultures seem to shift towards a greater emphasis of an independent social orientation. However, this shift may vary, with some cultures following different trajectories. Cultural transformations also affect the norms regarding the qualities favored in children, known as socialization goals. Research suggests that a greater shift towards independence may have more negative consequences for children's mental health. This study explored links between cohort changes (1989-2022) in socialization goal norms and the child anxiety disorder incidence rate across 70 countries. The analysis drew on data from the World Value Survey, Global Burden of Disease study, Human Development Report, and Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Country-level cross-temporal regression revealed no global effect of independence-oriented socialization norms. Moderation analyses showed no association among non-Western countries but a significantly stronger link between independence orientation and more anxiety disorders among Western countries. Globally, more emphasis on the interdependence-related goal religious faith was associated with fewer anxiety disorders. Validation analyses with child-level data from the U.S. replicated this finding and showed that religiosity norms were a stronger predictor than maternal religiosity. A cross-lagged panel model confirmed potential effects from religiosity to child anxiety. Although effect sizes were small, these findings suggest that religiosity may serve as a protective factor by fostering a sense of purpose and social connectedness, globally. This study highlights the role of cultural change in children's mental health and underscores the need for greater support for children growing up in increasingly secular societies.